Dubai’s passion for fitness, sports, and active living continues to grow every year. From running and cycling along Jumeirah Beach to playing football under the city lights, people of all ages are embracing healthier lifestyles. However, with this increase in physical activity, the number of sports-related injuries has also risen.
In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the most common sports injuries in Dubai, their causes, and how to prevent them — so you can stay active, safe, and pain-free.
1. Ankle Sprains
What It Is:
An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear due to sudden twisting or rolling.
Common Causes:
- Running or jumping on uneven surfaces
- Wearing improper footwear during workouts
- Sudden changes in direction while playing sports like football or basketball
Prevention Tips:
- Always warm up and stretch before playing
- Strengthen your ankle and calf muscles
- Use supportive shoes designed for your sport
2. Knee Injuries (ACL & Meniscus Tears)
What It Is:
Knee injuries such as ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears and meniscus damage are common among athletes and gym-goers in Dubai.
Common Causes:
- Sudden stops or pivots in sports like football or tennis
- Poor landing technique after jumps
- Weak thigh or hamstring muscles
Prevention Tips:
- Build leg strength through resistance training
- Avoid abrupt movements when tired
- Use knee supports during intense physical activity
Also Check: Preventing Sports Injuries: Expert Tips from a Dubai Chiropractor
3. Lower Back Pain and Strain
What It Is:
Many athletes experience lower back strain, especially those engaged in weightlifting, golf, or tennis. It occurs when muscles or ligaments in the lower back are overstressed.
Common Causes:
- Lifting heavy weights with poor form
- Weak core muscles
- Repetitive twisting movements
Prevention Tips:
- Strengthen your core with regular exercise
- Maintain correct posture while training
- Schedule chiropractic or physiotherapy checkups to prevent long-term issues
4. Shoulder Injuries (Rotator Cuff and Dislocation)
What It Is:
The shoulder joint is highly mobile but vulnerable to injury. Common conditions include rotator cuff tears, tendonitis, and dislocations.
Common Causes:
- Overhead movements in swimming or volleyball
- Heavy lifting without proper support
- Repetitive strain from poor technique
Prevention Tips:
- Warm up shoulders before workouts
- Strengthen shoulder stabilizer muscles
- Avoid overtraining and allow time for recovery
5. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
What It Is:
Despite the name, tennis elbow can affect anyone — not just tennis players. It’s caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons.
Common Causes:
- Repetitive gripping or wrist extension
- Poor swing mechanics
- Using the wrong sports equipment
Prevention Tips:
- Strengthen your wrist and forearm muscles
- Avoid excessive strain on the elbow joint
- Use proper technique and ergonomically designed gear
Also Check: Sports Recovery 2.0: Chiropractors for Performance and Injury
Sports Injuries in Dubai – The Bigger Picture
Dubai’s year-round warm weather makes outdoor activities accessible, but the intense heat, dehydration, and hard playing surfaces increase injury risk. Many residents also switch rapidly from a sedentary lifestyle to high-intensity workouts — another major cause of strains and sprains.
Regular visits to a sports chiropractor or physiotherapist can help detect early signs of overuse and correct posture or movement patterns before injuries occur.
Top comments (0)