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How to Avoid Common Sports Injuries

Posted on September 9th, 2022 by Orthopaedic Specialty Group

Exercising at the gym or playing your favorite sports is a great way to stay happy and fit, but you are also exposing yourself to more risk of injury. Some of the most common sports injuries include: 

  • Sprains, fractures, breaks, and dislocations
  • Joint and muscle injuries
  • Achilles tendon injuries
  • Hamstring strain
  • Shin splints
  • Concussion
  • Tennis or golf elbow

Luckily, most of the above injuries can be better prevented with extra care and effort.

From the orthopaedic specialists at OSG in Fairfield County, CT, here are a few tips to help you and others stay safe and avoid common sports injuries: 

Wear Protective Gear

Always wear the proper protective gear to avoid injury! The gear is designed to keep your body safe. From helmets, shin guards, gloves, shoulder pads, footwear, and more, always wear the recommended or required equipment before taking the field. 

Play by The Rules

Before engaging in any sport, brush up on the rules of how to play safely, to keep yourself and others out of harm’s way. When all the players know the game’s guidelines, everyone has less chance of injury. After all, the rules were designed with the idea in mind of keeping the players safe. 

Warm-Up

It’s never a good idea to just run out onto the field and jump right into intense physical activity. Before playing, do some light stretches and warm-up exercises, such as a jog, to loosen up and ready your body for intense movement and activity. 

Take Time Off

Time to rest and recuperate is essential to a healthy body and mind when you play a sport. Plan to have at least one day off a week and a minimum full month off a year to give your body the time it needs to heal and continue playing to the best of your abilities. Rest periods during the day can also help keep your muscle sharp, catch your breath, and reduce your chance of injury. 

Strengthen Your Muscles With Exercise

Conditioning exercises that strengthen the muscles used while playing your sport can help lessen the risks of injury to the area. Develop a fitness routine incorporating strength training, aerobic exercise, and cardio to help increase your endurance, stamina, and flexibility. 

For exceptional orthopaedic care, contact Orthopaedic Specialty Group!

It’s crucial to seek expert medical treatment if you struggle with problems or pain associated with your bones or joints. Give the professionals at Orthopaedic Specialty Group a call at (203) 337-2600, and let us know how we can help you! Don’t let that pain hold you back from living your life. Your health and safety are our top priority.