Now that the brisk fall weather is in full swing, it’s time for fall sports. Whether you play football, soccer, or any other fall sport, it’s important to do whatever you can to prevent fall sports injuries. Here are some tips to help you do just that.
- Warm-Up
Don’t overlook the importance of warming up before any practice or game. Jogging, doing jumping jacks, or squatting can all increase your blood flow, oxygen, and nutrients and keep you injury-free before, during, and after you play your sport.
- Hydrate and Eat Well
Give your body exactly what it needs to perform optimally: plenty of water and nutritious foods. By eating well and staying hydrated, you can reduce the risk of fatigue-related injuries and ensure your muscles are strong and ready for all of your physical activities.
- Get Enough Rest
It can be difficult to get enough rest, especially if you’re a busy athlete. However, doing so is essential as it can prepare your body emotionally and physically for the games in your future. When we say rest, we mean proper sleep as well as time off from your regular sports routine. With enough rest, you can prevent overuse injuries.
- Know When to Stop
Refrain from playing a sport when you’re injured, tired, or feeling pain. If you’re injured, understand that you need time to heal and if you get back into it too quickly, you may put yourself at risk for further injury. If you’re in pain, don’t “tough it out.” Listen to your body and sit out until your pain goes away.
- Wear the Proper Equipment
One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent fall sports injuries is to wear the proper equipment. Helmets, shoes, and pads are all great ways to keep your body protected. Just be sure they are high quality, fit properly, and worn every time you play a sport.
If you do sustain a fall sports injury, stop playing immediately and rest. Seek medical care if the pain doesn’t go away in a few days, you have bone or joint deformities, you are facing excessive swelling, or you can’t bear weight.
Contact South Shore Orthopedics
If you’d like further information on how to prevent sports injuries this fall, we encourage you to contact us today. Our expert and compassionate providers specialize in sports medicine, joint replacement, hand surgery, and shoulder and knee reconstruction. To schedule an appointment with South Shore Orthopedics call (781) 337-5555 or request one online.