Mallorca’s climate makes it a paradise for sport: golf, padel, tennis, cycling, sailing, jet skiing and kitesurfing fill the summer months. But overdoing it, poor technique, unsuitable equipment and too little rest also fill sports medicine clinics with sore elbows, shoulders, knees and ankles.
Typical injuries by sport
- Padel and tennis: tennis elbow, shoulder pain from serving, knee twists and sprained ankles.
- Jet skiing: repeated impacts on the water strain the back, hips and knees.
- Kitesurfing: heavy pulling on the shoulders and neck, as well as falls.
- Sailing: constant rope work can irritate the tendons of the shoulders and elbows and overload the spine.
- Cycling: knee and lower back pain, often linked to a poorly adjusted bike.
Don’t play through pain
Ignoring pain usually makes things worse. An injury that could have healed in days can become a problem lasting weeks if you keep playing.
First aid: the PRICE rule
For an acute injury such as a sprain or strain:
- Protect: stop the activity.
- Rest: avoid putting weight or strain on the area.
- Ice: apply cold, wrapped in a cloth, for 15–20 minutes at a time.
- Compression: use an elastic bandage to limit swelling.
- Elevation: keep the injured limb raised.
For a day out on the water or a long ride, it’s worth packing instant ice packs and an elastic bandage.
Getting the right diagnosis
If pain or swelling doesn’t improve after a few days, see a doctor. After examining the injury, ultrasound can show muscles, tendons and joints in real time, while X-rays check for bone damage. In many cases, these tests are enough without the need for an MRI.
Treatment
Most sports injuries heal without surgery. Depending on the injury, treatment may include physiotherapy, targeted exercises, shock wave therapy for chronic tendon problems, or injections guided by ultrasound. Some athletes also use cryotherapy for recovery, though evidence for its benefits varies. A specialist can advise on what is appropriate for each case.
Prevention
- Warm up before playing and cool down afterwards.
- Increase training gradually.
- Use the right equipment and get coaching on technique.
- Wear a helmet for water sports such as kitesurfing and jet skiing.
- Drink plenty of water — dehydration increases the risk of cramps and injuries in the summer heat.
