Players face the typical injury risks that come from contact sports. You can end up with bruises or broken bones after colliding with opposing players, boards, or the goalie standards. And hamstring and ankle injuries can occur if you aren't properly stretched out.

The special equipment used to play hockey also brings unique hazards. Those skates have to be pretty sharp to glide over ice, and they'll cut through skin like butter and leave nasty gashes if you're not careful. Players have to watch out for opposing players' sticks, too, because they can also cause bruises and broken bones.

Players should probably have their favorite dentists on speed dial, too, since wayward pucks have been known to knock out a tooth or two.

Don't worry. We're pretty sure this wasn't caused by a flying puck. (Source)

However, there are potentially more serious issues, guys and gals.

You know the studies showing a strong relationship between concussions suffered by football players and long-term brain injuries? Unfortunately, there are similar studies for hockey players (source).

Clearly, concussions are a real danger and should not be ignored. At the risk of sounding like your mother, be sure to wear a helmet at all times and seek medical attention any time you feel woozy after a shot to the head.