Leading Causes of Sports-Related Injuries
Not Warming Up
It takes very little time to warm up. Whether it’s a pickup game of basketball, softball, or tag football, just take 10 to 15 minutes to warm up. Take some shots, lightly jog back and forth, or throw the ball to a friend. Do whatever it takes to get your body moving. It gets your cardiovascular system started, increases blood flow to your muscles, and gets your heart pumping.
Not Stretching
While there are varying studies and opinions about whether to stretch before or after exercising, it simply goes without saying that not stretching is not a risk worth taking. Regardless of what you believe or where you stand in the never-ending “stretch before” vs. “stretch after” debate, stretching reduces your risk of serious injury. It helps your joints, increases blood flow, and allows your muscles a full range of motion.
Overextension and Over-Exercising
It’s easy to get carried away. One minute, you are on a roll and feeling great, and the next, you feel a shooting pain down your back or shoulders. Overextension during exercise is a common cause of sports-related injuries, as is over-exercising or exceeding your capacity. Lift more than you should, and an injury could easily occur.
Accidents
Of course, there are always those sports-related injuries caused by unforeseen accidents. Even the most diligent athletes who always warm up, always stretch, never go beyond their limits, and always exercise caution can experience an injury because of an accident.
Poor Conditioning
If it’s been a while since you’ve exercised, then slow down at first and ease into it. Trying to impress others by exceeding your physical conditioning can quickly lead to an injury. Be honest with yourself. Going from not exercising – to suddenly running, jumping, and lifting – not only risks an injury but is also very dangerous regardless of your age.
Schedule a Consultation Today
At Orthopedic Associates of Long Island (OALI), our team of expert physicians and staff are dedicated to helping you get back to a healthy and active lifestyle. With eight convenient locations, we are here to provide exceptional care for any sports-related injuries you may have experienced. Our goal is to treat your injury and prevent future ones. We are here to provide help and guidance if you need assistance maintaining optimal orthopedic health.
With seven convenient locations across Long Island, NY, our team of experienced professionals can help determine if this treatment is the right fit for your individual needs. Call us today at (631) 689-6698 to schedule an appointment.
