Musculoskeletal injury

When we move our bodies, we use our muscles and bones. Sometimes when we move in a way that is too fast, too hard or in a way that our body is not used to, we can hurt our muscles or bones. This is called a musculoskeletal injury.

There are different kinds of musculoskeletal injuries. One is called a sprain, which happens when we stretch or tear the ligaments that connect our bones together. Another is called a strain, which happens when we overuse or tear our muscles. A fracture happens when we break our bones.

Musculoskeletal injuries can be painful and might make it difficult to move or use the injured area. But with rest, ice, compression and elevation (which is called RICE), the injured area can heal. If the injury is very serious, a doctor might need to put a cast or brace on it to protect it while it heals.

To prevent musculoskeletal injuries, we should always warm up before exercising and stretch to prevent our muscles from getting tight. We should also wear protective gear if we're doing something that might be dangerous, like riding a bike or rollerblading. And if we do get injured, it's important to take time to rest and let our bodies heal before we start moving again.