Lacrosse is listed by the NCAA as a "collision sport". That's the same category as ice hockey and football. Though unlike those sports, lacrosse has a lower rate of injury. This could be because Men's lacrosse players have to wear chest and shoulder pads, groin cups, helmets and padded gloves and elbows. Women's lacrosse injuries data doesn't show the need for helmets, but mouth guards and eye protection are required.

Common Injuries

Lacrosse injuries to the hands and wrists usually happen because of a direct blow. Although lacrosse gloves are padded they are not as cushioned as hockey gloves to give greater flexibility to the fingers. When the fingers are trapped against the shaft during a blow, fractures can occur.

Clavicle fractures and shoulder separations are most commonly seen from collision with another player or fall onto the point of the shoulder. Lacrosse has a relatively high rate of shoulder injuries as compared to other contact sports. In fact, the shoulder is the most frequently injured body part during games.

Because no pads are worn on the lower extremities, the body parts most frequently injured were the ankle, upper leg, and knee, which combined accounted for 48% of all lacrosse injuries. Knee injuries are among the most commonly observed in the sport of lacrosse because of the quick pivoting footwork to avoid an opponent with a dodge or cut which strains the knee.

Protective Equipment

Both US Lacrosse and the NCAA have set regulations that require the use of protective equipment designed mainly for the head and upper extremities. Men's lacrosse is sometimes perceived to be a violent sport, but NCAA injury statistics don't support this claim. Approximately 40% of lacrosse injuries are non-contact.

US Lacrosse data showed that 42% of insurance claims dollars were paid for knee injuries and 50% were paid to high school athletes. Statistics show that using helmets impedes irreparable brain injuries although concussions do happen.

The incidental contact in women's lacrosse has shown that the need for extensive protective equipment, including helmets, is not necessary. Protection of the face, eyes and mouth, are required. Some girls prefer to wear a non-padded glove and nose guards are often opted for.

It is important for coaches and parents to be familiar with the most likely injuries to occur in practice or a game. Having an idea of which injuries are the most common can lead to better treatment and a shorter recovery for the athlete.