While sports injuries are common, the benefits of playing sports far outweigh the risks. In past years, there were as many as 8.6 million sports injuries in one year. Fortunately, there are simple ways you can help prevent injuries so you’re not one of the millions sidelined this year.
At Texas Orthopedics Associates, our expert team can help you learn how to prevent injuries. We can also help you recover if you do get injured — and then work toward preventing re-injury.
Our team of expert orthopedists, physical therapists, and physician assistants put together this list of five ways to help you reduce your risk of getting injured on the field or court.
1. Get into decent shape
Playing a sport, whether it’s a team sport or an individual sport, is a great way to get healthy and stay in shape. However, if you’ve been couch surfing in between driving to work and sitting at your desk for a while, it’s a good idea to start training and getting into good cardiovascular shape before you join the team. Going from zero to 60 is not the best way to kick off your new sports regimen.
2. Wear proper and properly fitted equipment
If you’re playing a contact sport, wearing the proper protective equipment is a must. Protective equipment that fits you well can save your limbs, teeth, eyes, and head. Equally as important as protecting those parts is wearing properly fitted shoes. Comfortable sports shoes can help you run safely and prevent blisters and other foot ailments.
3. Follow the rules of the game
Rules keep the game moving along and also keep things safe. They’re designed to minimize injury and maximize sportsmanship and fun. So, learn the rules of your sport and abide by them to help reduce your risk of getting hurt.
4. Stop when it hurts
Speaking of getting hurt, pain is your body’s signal that you are working too hard or that something is amiss. Please ignore the saying, “No pain, no gain.” If you’re in pain, playing through it can cause a new injury or intensify an injury you already have. Take a seat and rest.
5. Take days off
Speaking of rest, it’s essential to take some time off. Your body needs time to heal and regenerate. You may think that the more you train or play, the better you’ll get at the sport or the stronger your body will be. The truth is that those who play multiple days in a row have a higher risk of injury. Days off are a critical part of proper training and strength building.
For more information on sports injury prevention, sports training, and injury recovery, call Texas Orthopedic Associates with offices in Dallas, Plano, and Fort Worth, Texas. You can also make an appointment online through this website.
