Preventing Common Sports Injuries

For a lot of us, playing sports was a huge part of our childhood, and for some of us it remains a big part of our lives. Sports injuries happen, and that often means we get a turn on the bench – which is definitely not as fun as being on the field. While the more active you are in sports the bigger the chance you have of becoming injured, there are a few things you can do to prevent them from happening.

Stretch Often

Strains and sprains are the most common types of sports injuries, and improving your range of motion is an effective prevention strategy. Stretching before and after playing sports or strenuous physical activity will help you achieve a fuller range of motion as time passes by.

Warm-ups

Warming up prior to playing sports will help get the blood flowing to the right muscles, thus allowing your muscles to prepare for the activity.  For example, kicking a ball after a long time of not playing may hyperextend a muscle group and cause muscle strains and tears.

Conditioning

It is important to consider that you may not be quite ready for the level of activity a certain sport requires, and physical conditioning is an imperative part of your training. Conditioning will help you build up the muscle and stamina to be able to complete the activity with a decreased chance of injury.

Stay Properly Hydrated

Proper hydration is key to playing sports. Lack of water may influence your ability to think through situations quickly enough to prevent injuring yourself. Being dehydrated can also lead to nausea, dizziness, and other dangerous conditions.

Stop When You are Fatigued

Fatigue may be a sign of your muscles not receiving the right oxygen to be able to continue. When your muscles are not getting enough blood flow and oxygen, chances of injuries are heightened.

There are a lot of ways to prevent sports injuries, but being properly prepared for the activity is centric to all of them. If you play sports and are interested in the best ways to prevent sports injuries, call Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland today at (410) 644-1880 to make an appointment! You may also request an appointment online.