Sports injuries are common, and they occur during physical or sports activities. They are more prevalent in children, but adults can get them too. You can often prevent these injuries through proper training before engaging in any sports activity. However, you can use at-home methods or over-the-counter medications to get relief if you get injured. In cases where the injury is severe or causes some alarming symptoms, it would be best to seek immediate care from your doctor. Talk to a sports injuries Lawrenceville specialist to learn the steps you should take to avoid getting injured. This article will cover some of the most common causes of sports injuries that are preventable. Various sports injuries, such as sprains, strains, dislocations, fractures, and knee and rotator cuff injuries, might vary in severity. Here are five common reasons you can’t risk getting injured during your game or practice.
- Poor Conditioning
Poor conditioning is a major cause of sports injuries. It can be difficult to tell if you are in good shape. However, you can do some simple things to ensure your body is prepared for all the physical activity that comes with being a professional athlete.
Strengthen your muscles by lifting weights at the gym or doing resistance exercises at home. These exercises will help increase strength and power, which is essential for sports like football and tennis, where precision timing, speed, and agility are key.
- Improper Use of Protective Devices
Use and choose the right equipment for your sport to prevent unexpected injuries. Ensure you properly fit and maintain protective devices, including mouthguards, helmets, and padding. If you have an injury that requires you to use protective equipment such as a shin splint, follow proper care instructions as outlined in the manufacturer’s instructions. You can also consult with a doctor who specializes in sports medicine, and be sure not to wear protective gear when not necessary.
- Overuse Injuries
Overuse injuries are caused by repetitive use of a muscle or joint. They can happen to anyone, but they are more common in athletes who participate in high-impact sports. Some common overuse injuries include knee, back, foot, ankle, elbow, and arm injuries. These injuries can cause your muscles and joints to become stiffer and inflamed. Ensure you take regular physical breaks to avoid developing overuse injuries.
- Using the Wrong Equipment
Using the wrong equipment or one in poor condition can cause injuries. If you are playing a sport and lack proper gear, you could be putting yourself at risk for an injury.
In some cases, even if there are no equipment problems, but your body is not used to wearing protective gear, you may still develop an injury. Also, when using any protective gear, ensure it fits properly and protects against injury from impact or contact with another player.
- Improper Training Techniques
To avoid sports injuries, make sure you are training properly. Do not overtrain or train with a partner who is stronger or faster than you. Doing so can put you at a greater risk of developing injuries. Also, when warming up, avoid doing the same exercises repeatedly or at too high a level of intensity. Consult your trainer on which techniques best suit you based on your weight and experience.
The only way to prevent sports injuries is by paying attention to the warning signs and taking preventative measures. If you notice any warning signs, as explained above, do not hesitate to contact Performance Pain and Sports Medicine. You can also book an appointment online through Dr. Suzanne Manzi or Dr. Matthias Wiederholz so that they can recommend ways to prevent further injury.
