Most young athletes do not think about a lack of sleep when considering the cause of their sport injuries. Athletes assume the injuries are the direct result of training too hard, using incorrect form or an impact with another player. But a lack of sleep has a much bigger impact on the body than most people assume.
Sleep deprivation is the condition of not getting enough sleep at night. Young adults should be getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night. Some require even more if they participate in extensive physical activity. When the body does not get enough sleep, it is unable to fully recharge the brain, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Sleep deprivation can cause issues such as heart disease and diabetes. But those effects typically take decades to occur.
A recent study explored whether a link existed between sleeping habits and sports injuries. 112 people were part of the study that included students in 7th to 12th grade. The study attempted to see how sleep impacted the injuries suffered by these young men and women.
The study showed that adolescents who got less than eight hours of sleep every night were 1.7 times more likely to suffer an injury. While the study is not conclusive proof, it is an indication that athletes who do not sleep enough may suffer more sport injuries. This is because they are not giving their bodies enough rest time to recover from daily activities.
If you are suffering from a sports injury, seek medical attention from a sports medicine doctor. Dr. Bob at Spinal Rehab Sports Medicine has been practicing sports medicine for over 25 years. He has experience rehabilitating collegiate and Olymipic athletes back to record breaking levels. With good nutrition, adequate sleep and a sports injury treatment plan you will be back to doing what you love, fast!
