Learn from Professional Athletes

How Injuries Can Derail Olympic Dreams

U.S. gymnast Simone Biles promised to pursue Olympic gold despite suffering a calf injury during the Paris Games’ qualifying round. French soccer captain Wendie Renard had to withdraw from a match against Canada due to a thigh injury. Kawhi Leonard of the L.A. Clippers missed the entire competition because of inflammation in his previously injured right knee.

While Olympic athletes may appear to perform their sports effortlessly, the constant strain on muscles and tendons can lead to significant injuries that impact more than just their medal chances, according to an orthopedic specialist from Baylor College of Medicine. These risks are prevalent across all sports, from gymnastics and long-distance running to swimming.

Biles’ return after stepping back from the 2020 Tokyo Games has captured much attention from U.S. fans in the 2024 Games. She participates in four events: vault, floor exercise, beam, and the all-around.

For gymnasts, high-impact jumps, flips, and dismounts can lead to knee sprains, strains, and torn ACLs. Ankle injuries often result from landings, and wrist strains, fractures, and pain can come from weight-bearing handstands and cartwheels. Additionally, rotator cuff injuries can occur from high-impact landings and repetitive overhead movements on the bars.

Correct technique, proper conditioning, and preventive measures are crucial to reducing these risks and extending athletes’ careers. Ankle and foot injuries are frequent in high-impact sports like basketball and soccer. Ligament damage, such as sprains from sudden movements or poor landings, is typical. The stress of jumping, cutting, and quick sprints can lead to Achilles tendon ruptures, while knee injuries like ACL tears or meniscus damage often necessitate surgery. Overuse from jumping can result in tendonitis, known as jumper’s knee, and shoulder dislocations, although rare, can occur during high-speed collisions on the court or pitch.

Track and field athletes face their own set of risks, including strained hamstrings from rapid starts and stops and shin splints. Extreme overuse can cause stress fractures, and hip flexor strains, jumper’s knee strains, and shoulder or elbow strains are also prevalent depending on the event.

All injuries can significantly impact an athlete’s condition in their sport. Effective rehabilitation is essential for athletes to sustain their peak performance.