A sports injury is any type of physical harm that occurs while playing a sport. The most common types of sports injuries are strains and sprains, which occur when muscles or ligaments are stretched beyond their limits. However, more serious injuries, such as concussions and broken bones, can also occur.
Anyone who has a physically active lifestyle understands the real risk of injuries. Whether you’re an athlete or a weekend warrior, injuries are just a part of life. The good news is, the risk of injuries can be reduced with safe practices, the right athletic wear and equipment, and the guidance of an orthopedic or sports medicine doctor.
What Causes Sports Injuries?
Overuse is the most common cause of sports injuries and often occurs when you train too hard or too often without allowing your body enough time to recover and get used to the strain you’re putting on it. This can lead to stress fractures, tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons), bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints), and many other problems.
Impact trauma can occur when you fall or are hit by something during a game or practice. It can also occur gradually over time as repetitive motion puts strain on your bones and tissues. Impact trauma is a common cause of knee injuries, such as ACL tears and meniscus damage.
How To Prevent Sports Injuries?
There are several ways to prevent sports injuries. First and foremost, it is important to warm up properly before participating in any physical activity. This helps to loosen muscles and other soft tissues and prepare them for exercise. Additionally, it is important to wear the proper safety gear for your particular sport. This includes items like a helmet, mouthguard, and appropriate footwear.
You should also take things gradually. For instance, if you are starting a new sport or increasing the intensity with which you play, it’s best to take things slow. An example is increasing the length of time you play gradually, such as 15 additional minutes a week. Finally, listen to your body. If you’re feeling pain, stiffness, or another issue while playing your sport or exercising, it means it’s time for you to take a break and have an expert look into what could be causing the problem.
How To Deal with a Sports Injury?
If you suffer a sports injury, there are steps you can take to minimize damage and speed up healing. First, it’s important not to ignore pain. Seek medical attention right away if you think you may have suffered a serious injury. For less severe injuries, the RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) method is often an effective treatment approach. Be sure not to push yourself too hard during recovery. Overdoing it could result in further damage. With proper care and patience, most people make full recoveries from even the most serious sports injuries.
Sports Injury Treatment in San Antonio, Boerne, Hondo, Floresville, Kenedy, Uvalde, and Live Oak, TX
The podiatrists at The Podiatry Group of South Texas have advanced training in sports medicine, which allows us to quickly diagnose injuries and apply proper treatment. Our doctors know you like to be on your feet and love playing your sport, which is why our treatment plans are comprehensive and include techniques to help boost and speed up healing.
To schedule an appointment with one of our foot and ankle doctors, call our podiatry clinic nearest you, or use our convenient online request form.
