What is a dead leg?

A dead leg can be extremely painful and is a frequent injury in contact sports.

WHO?

Rugby players and any other people involved in contact sports.

HOW?

Heavy impact to the quadriceps causing the muscle to be crushed against the bone.

This causes a tearing of the muscle within the sheath that surrounds it.

WHAT KIND OF PAIN?

Hurts at point of impact and usually tingling in leg. Also swelling, bruising and sometimes restricted movement.

TREATMENT?

Rest, ice, compress and elevate. Use a compression bandage until pain ceases.

RETURN?

Can take days or weeks to recover.

Story from BBC SPORT:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/sport2/hi/health_and_fitness/4284462.stm

Published: 2005/09/28 16:44:00 GMT

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