HOW TO HELP PREVENT SPORTS INJURIES

Here are a few tips to prevent sports injuries

Updated: Jul 19, 2019

Living in Florida, you have the ability to play sports all year long. While it can be beneficial to your physical and mental health, vigorous exercise also puts you at a higher risk for a debilitating injury. But being aware of some common sports injuries and the proper precautions you can take to prevent them will help keep you in the game longer.

Here are a few steps you can take to help prevent sports injuries.

Warm Up

Properly stretching your muscles, doing a light workout, or jogging at a slow pace before diving into vigorous activity boosts blood flow and flexibility. If you’re not used to strenuous exercise, first build up your strength and stamina before attempting anything more ambitious. Lift light weights to strengthen your muscles and do some cardio exercises to build up your endurance.

Wear the Proper Equipment

Supportive athletic shoes protect against sprained ankles, shin splints, and heel spurs. Playing certain sports requires you wear protective gear as well.

Vary Your Activity

Many sports injuries affect athletes who continually make the same movements or perform the same activities. These repetitions stress overworked ligaments, joints, and muscles. Cross-training exercises or participating in a variety of different sports reduces the odds of an overuse injury by working all muscle groups.

Know When to Take a Break

Lastly, don't overdo it. The body requires rest and if you over exert yourself, your body may not be able to recover before injuring yourself.

If after these tips you end up with a sports injury, give us a call at Vero Elite Rehab & Orthopedic Surgery located at 1355 37th Street in beautiful Vero Beach, Florida. We'll be happy to help get you back on your feet.