Handball has always been a high impact sport but over the years it has developed into a sport characterized by a noticeable increase in speed, intensity and force – with more injuries as a result. Learn about the most common injuries in handball today. What are the causes and symptoms, and what can you do to prevent injuries and alleviate pain if you’re affected? Rehband guides you towards an injury-free sport.

The 11 most common injuries in handball are: sprained ankle, patella dislocation, throwing shoulder, ACL injuries, dislocated shoulder, heel pain, periostitis, diffuse front knee pain (PFSS), Osgood-Schlatter Disease, junper's knee and general back pain. Learn more about that specific injury in the following.

Ligament damage on the outside of the foot is one of the most common injuries. In handball games it is common for this to happen when jumping and then landing askew on the foot. The injury mechanism is that the foot folds inwards (supination) and this can lead to a rupture or tearing of the ligament on the outside of the foot. Acute ligament injuries rarely need surgery but are treated with active exercise at an early stage.

Dislocation of the kneecap may occur from side impacts against the knee joint, for example in tackling or collision with opponents, and is the most common cause of swollen knees in adolescents and children. If the kneecap is “almost coming out” it is called subluxation, which has the same causes and is treated in a similar way to patella dislocation.

Injury mechanism: the kneecap is usually pulled outwards (laterally). This may result in the joint capsule and soft tissue on the other side of the knee being overstretched. The injury often affects younger teenagers, partly because of general hypermobility.

Throwing shoulder is an injury that develops over a long time and is due to overstraining of the shoulder due to repeated throwing motions.

ACL injuries are one of the most common and toughest knee injuries occurring in the sport. Correct diagnosis at an early stage is important in order to begin adequate treatment. Occurs primarily in sports such as football, handball, floorball and downhill skiing.

A shoulder jumping out of its joints usually happens if you fall on an outstretched arm or get a strain in the throwing arm. A dislocated shoulder often results in damage to cartilage, ligaments and joint capsules. The risk of recurrence is high, therefore rehabilitation and regular specific shoulder exercises are very important in order to stay active and play handball!

Injuries from overstraining in the heel area are common in active children and adolescents aged 8-14. The injury heals of its own accord and the prognosis is good, but the healing period can extend over several years.

Pain on the inside of the lower leg. Periostitis often occurs during or after running or jumping exercises and arises mainly in long distance running, ball sports and gymnastics.