Definition: Tear or stretch of ligament

Cause: Impact on body forces a joint out of its normal position

Symptoms: Pain, swelling, bruising, instability, loss of ability to move joint

Treatment: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE), take aspirin or ibuprofen

Prevention: Daily stretching, properly fitting shoes, avoid excessive exercise

Definition: Tear or stretch to a muscle or tendon

Cause: Overuse, heavy lifting

Symptoms: Limited motion, muscle spasms, muscle weakness

Treatment: RICE, after pain decreases, use a heat compress and stretch lightly

Prevention: Daily stretching, warm up and down during exercise

Definition: Tear of the ACL (which connects the upper and lower leg bones around the knee)

Cause: Sudden stop or twisting motion, "blow" to the knee

Symptoms: Inability to move knee laterally, swelling, knee feels "loose"

Treatment: RICE, surgery

Prevention: Strengthen leg muscles with running and biking, daily stretching

Definition: Inflammation of the tendon and adjacent tissues in the front of the outer leg

Cause: Overuse, usually running

Symptoms: Swelling, redness around tibia

Treatment: RICE, followed by heat and massage

Prevention: Wear shock absorbing insoles and warm up properly before exercise

Definition: Injury to the bone

Cause: Repetitive stress during strenuous exercise or heavy activity

Symptoms: Sharp pain, mild swelling, uncomfortable pressure

Treatment: Rest, avoid overuse and intense activity

Prevention: Adequate rest, avoid abrupt increases in training intensity