Anyone who has ever been involved in sports has likely suffered an injury of one kind or another . Sports involve a lot of high-intensity physical activity, which puts tremendous strain on the body. Even with proper training and safety precautions, injuries are inevitable due to the nature of the activity. Sports tend to be physically demanding, requiring our bodies to endure many forms of stress and trauma.
There are many common sports injuries such as sprains, strains, tendonitis, bursitis, fractures, dislocations, and concussions. These injuries can occur in any sport but may be more common in contact sports or activities that require repetitive motions. No matter how good of a shape you keep yourself in, the odds are that you’ll eventually suffer from one type of injury.
The question is, what can we do to prevent it? Warming up and stretching correctly are the greatest ways to avoid sports injuries. Cold muscles are more susceptible to overstretching and tearing. Muscles that are warm are more flexible. They can absorb fast motions, bends, and jerks, reducing the risk of harm.
Here are some common injuries and some tips on how to avoid and treat them:
A Runner’s Knee
Knee injuries are among the most frequent sports injuries that orthopedic surgeons treat . One of the most effective means of prevention is to replace your running shoes and insoles on a regular basis . Take a few days off from activity after an injury and take some anti-inflammatory medication.
Warming Up and Cooling Down is a Must
Warming up and cooling down appropriately before and after physical exercise is one of the most essential things you can do to avoid sports injuries. Warming up with simple workouts like jumping jacks raises your heart rate and body temperature, making your muscles more flexible and less susceptible to injury. Cooling down allows your body to gradually return to its resting condition, which helps to minimize blood pooling and cramping.
Achilles Tendinitis
Overuse of the Achilles Tendon (the rear of the ankle) can result in severe inflammation and discomfort. Calf muscle strengthening and stretching activities can help avoid this ailment. When it is damaged, RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) and anti-inflammatories should be used. It is best to avoid exercising until it has completely healed.
Ankle Sprain
Ankle sprains are common in sports that require lots of running and rapid movements. This is because the ankles have to bear the body’s total weight when running and turning quickly, making them vulnerable to strains and sprains. Additionally, the ligaments in the ankles are not as strong as other body parts, making them more susceptible to injuries. Prevention requires strengthening your ankles as much as possible. Treat with RICE and anti-inflammatories, and try to move the ankle to help with blood circulation.
Seeing a doctor on a regular basis can assist in preventing injuries by catching any concerns early on. If you have any pre-existing medical issues affecting your ability to exercise safely, notify your doctor.
It is critical to seek medical attention for a sports injury as soon as possible rather than battling to stay in the game. If left untreated, a minor injury can quickly escalate into a much more severe condition that will keep you out of work for much longer. A sports medicine specialist can help you recover fast and safely by diagnosing and treating your injury.