SPORTS & EXERCISE INJURIES
Playing sports is an American national pastime for both adults and children. From little league and pee wee ball all the way up to professional sports, there is literally something for everyone. While everyone agrees, playing sports and exercising can be fun, fulfilling, and good for you; it can also come with a multitude of injuries. With so many people in the game, the number of injuries has increased dramatically. Fortunately, the prevention and the treatments have also improved dramatically. The best strategy to avoid injury is clearly Prevention. Take a look at what our doctors at Laurel Foot & Ankle Center or Northern Virginia Foot & Ankle Associates recommend. Cornerstones of Prevention
Get a Physical. Many things can show up on a routine physical.
Dress the Part. The right shoes, gear, and equipment are essential. Again, our doctors can advise you with the right shoes. This is especially critical for runners and other athletes that foot and ankle issues
Hydrate. Then Hydrate Some More.
Proper Warm Up & Stretching.
Techniques for warm up and stretch go a long way in preventing an injury and recovering from one. Stretching should also be incorporated into a daily fitness plan. ·
Strengthen muscles. Conditioning exercises strengthens muscles used in play.
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STOP when you are tired.
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DO NOT attempt to “play through the pain”.
Injury Risks – The Three Most Common. Sprains (injuries to ligaments) Strains (injuries to muscles) Stress fractures (injuries to bones) When excessive stress is placed on tendons, joints, bones and muscles, injury occurs. The most common sports injuries are strains and sprains. Sprains are injuries to ligaments, the tough bands connecting bones in a joint. Strains are injuries to muscle fibers or tendons, which anchor muscles to bones. Strains, often referred to as “pulled muscles” cause tears in the muscle fibers or tendons. The 7 Most Common Injuries. 1. Ankle sprain 2. Groin pull 3. Hamstring strain 4. Shin splints 5. Knee injury: ACL tear 6. Knee injury: Patellofemoral syndrome — injury resulting from the repetitive movement of your kneecap against your thigh bone 7. Tennis elbow (epicondylitis)
What to Do When Hurt? Most importantly, STOP playing, as it can cause more harm. Treatment often begins with the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and speed healing. If pain, swelling and redness is present, podiatric medical treatment is recommended. Call our office for an evaluation to help identify the injury and the best course of treatment. We may prescribe additional pain relievers, stabilizing the injured area, rehabilitation and in some cases surgery. If you think your may have a Sport or Exercise injury, or want to learn more about preventative care or treatments, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a diagnosis and the best in recommended care. Contact our offices Laurel Foot & AnkleCenter or Northern Virginia Foot & Ankle Associates and schedule an appointment today. To learn more about Sports Injuries, go to Heel Pain Institute of America and Laurel Foot & Ankle Center or Northern Virginia Foot