The Most Common Weightlifting Injuries

By John Kriak

Introduction

John Kriak, PharmD, provides consulting services both in a clinical setting and as a contributing author for Kaplan Education and as an educational board member for Dannemiiller Education. In his spare time, Dr. John Kriak enjoys running, playing racquetball, and weightlifting.

Below are a few of the most common injuries found in weightlifting

ACL injury – Injury to the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, can occur if one’s upper body is unable to handle the stress and pressure of weights, and so the stress is transferred onto the knees. If the ACL cannot handle the weight, it will “pop” under pressure.

Lower back pain – Lower back pain occurs when too much stress is placed on the spinal column, either by attempting to lift too much weight or by doing too many repetitions of any one particular exercise such as squats. This condition can be avoided by splitting up the “sets” performed during a workout.

Conclusion

Shoulder impingement – Also known as “weightlifter’s shoulder,” this condition is caused by repeated movements over one’s head. One way to avoid shoulder impingement is to strengthen the rotator cuffs in the shoulders.