Water polo - preventing injury

Water polo is a demanding game that requires players to tread water or swim for the whole match. Standing on the bottom or hanging onto the sides of the pool is not allowed. A variation called ‘flipper ball’ permits standing up and is suitable for younger players. Water polo is a low risk sport.

Common injuries

• Eyes - irritation from pool chemicals such as chlorine.
• Hip and knee - overuse injuries can occur from the constant treading of water.
• Shoulder - injuries include sprains and strains.
• Scratches - from the fingernails of other players. Abrasions, cuts and bruises can also occur when wrestling for the ball.
• Facial injuries - such as black eye or split lip, caused by contact with other players or the ball.
• Hypothermia - dangerous and potentially fatal drop in body temperature caused by cold conditions.
• Sunburn - from playing outside without sunscreen.
• Warts - a skin growth caused by a viral infection. Swimming in public swimming pools is a known risk factor for warts.

Risk factors

• Lack of fitness - an unfit person with poor stamina and flexibility is much more likely to get hurt playing any type of sport.
• Inexperience - beginners may be more likely to be injured because they do not have the skills to meet the demands of the sport.
• Poor technique - puts unnecessary strain on joints and muscles: for example, poor throwing action or shooting the ball awkwardly.
• Lack of protective equipment - neglecting to wear protective equipment, such as a cap with ear guards or a mouth guard, makes injury more likely.

General health suggestions

• Exercise regularly to keep yourself in good physical condition.
• Undertake a general strength and fitness program including weight training and aerobic activities such as swimming to improve muscle strength.
• Drink plenty of water before, during and after the game to reduce the risk of dehydration.
• Warm up thoroughly before playing. Include plenty of sustained stretches.
• Incorporate stretching into your cool down routine.

General safety suggestions

• Strictly observe the rules of the game.
• Work at improving your form. Ask your coach for tips on how to improve your technique and reduce the risk of injury.
• Wear appropriate protective equipment, such as a cap with ear guards and a mouth guard.
• Clip your fingernails and toenails short.
• Wear water-resistant 30+ sunscreen when playing outside. Reapply regularly.

What to do if you injure yourself

• Stop immediately if an injury occurs to help prevent further damage.
• Seek prompt treatment of injury. Early management will mean less time away from the pool.
• Treat all soft tissue injuries (ligament sprains, muscle strains, bumps and bruises) with rest, ice, compression, elevation (raise the limb above your heart) and seek advice from a health professional.
• Do not resume activity until you have completely recovered from injury.

Where to get help

• Your doctor
• Always call an ambulance in an emergency Tel. 000
• Physiotherapist
• Victorian Water Polo Tel. (03) 9926 1552
• Smartplay Tel. (03) 9674 8777

Things to remember

• Water polo is a demanding game that requires the players to tread water or swim for the duration of the match.
• Work on improving your muscular strength, particularly of the abdominals, shoulders and lower back.