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  • Prevent Common Sports Injuries

Prevent Common Sports Injuries

Sports injuries are all too common regardless of which sports you play. Someone who sustains a sports injury could be advised to take it easy for a week or more and see an expert in sports medicine to find out the nature of the injury.

According to a study in Injury Epidemiology, male athletes are more prone to sports injuries than female athletes. The most popular sports that may easily cause an injury are running, strength training, and football.

Fortunately, the benefits of playing sports far outweigh the risks of injury, especially since injuries can be prevented. But if you actively participate in sports, here are a few ways to prevent common sports injuries:

1. Always wear the right sports gear.

If you're playing any type of contact sport, then wearing the appropriate protective gear and pads for the head, shoulders, elbows, knees, and shins is a no-brainer. You need this protection because the injuries from a contact sport can be traumatic, life-threatening, and long-lasting.

If you're into running, you must have the right type of shoes to prevent leg pain and other injuries to your feet. Studies show that while maximal shoes may be comfortable, footwear fitted with increased cushioning in the midsole may put the runner at higher risk for injuries. If a pair of running shoes alter your natural gait, then they might not be the right footwear for you.

2. Don't forget to stretch before and after you play.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, stretching can increase your body's flexibility, regardless of the sports you play. It also helps reduce muscle soreness as it increases the blood flow to your muscles, which can help with your performance during the game.

So, whether you're in an actual game or just practicing, do stretching exercises to help your muscles warm-up and cool-down. Sports medicine experts encourage athletes to focus on the major muscle groups around the calves, thighs, lower back, neck, and shoulders.

3. Train well and learn the techniques.

Being a good athlete isn't just about having natural abilities. It's also about learning the proper techniques and listening to the coach or athletic trainer. The point of following the right technique is to prevent injuries caused by wrong movements and poor body mechanics.

4. Recognize your body's need to rest.

Give your body time to recover if you've been pushing yourself too hard. Always spend a day or two resting so that your muscles can recover. This is also the best way to prevent overuse injuries.

In need of an expert's advice? Here's where to go

At Pinnacle Orthopedics, we utilize the most up-to-date technologies and surgical techniques to provide our patients with the highest quality of care. Our team of orthopedic doctors, physical therapists, and sports medicine experts have years of experience in handling various types of cases and have helped many patients return to their normal lives.

We are one with the community. Not only do our healthcare staff get involved in promoting awareness at numerous schools and sporting events, but they also provide exceptional orthopedic services at 5 convenient locations. With offices located in Canton, Hiram, Marietta (East Cobb), Marietta, and Woodstock and a Surgery Center in Woodstock, our services are very accessible.

If you still have any questions or wish to consult a member of our staff, please contact Sports Medicine Departments at our various locations:

  • Canton: 770-345-5717

  • Hiram: 678-453-5717

  • Marietta: 770-499-9918

  • Woodstock: 770-926-6520.

Or make an enquire on our contact page.


The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.