10 WAYS TO PREVENT SUMMER SPORTS INJURIES

It’s summertime… time for lots of outdoor sports and family fun! With the increase in outdoor activities in the heat can come an increase in sports-related injuries. Here are some quick tips to keep your summer fun and healthy, and keep you and your kids on top of your game.

  1. WARM UP IN THE HEAT

When participating in sports, make sure you warm up properly. Take a quick 5-10 minute walk/jog to get that blood flowing and joints warm.

 

  1. STRETCH YOUR LIMITS

Lightly stretch before activity to add flexibility to your muscles and ligaments.  Focus on stretching your legs and back the most.

 

  1. HYDRATE

Since the majority of the human body is made up of H2O, be sure to drink plenty of water or fitness drink. In the heat you get dehydrated much faster, which greatly increases your chance for injury.

 

  1. COOL DOWN

A 5 to 10minute post-exercise cool down followed by a deep stretch will help return your body back to its resting state and keep you less sore.

 

  1. PRACTICE

Practice proper form in any of the activities you perform.  Improper movements can increase injury.

 

  1. TAPE FOR STABILITY

Use supports or exercise tape if necessary to support your joints and provideproper stability.

 

  1. MAKE EXERCISE PART OF DAILY ROUTINE

Stop trying to be a weekend warrior! Most injuries occur because people don’t participate regularly, then just push toohard.  Exercise everyday, even if for just 20 minutes.

 

  1. GET YOUR Zssssssssss

Proper rest is more important than you think. 8-10 hours of sleep a night will supply your body with the proper time it needs to repair any injuries.

 

  1. GET THE RIGHT GEAR

Wear the proper equipment for your sport or activity, including good shoes, helmets, pads, etc.

 

  1. ICE

Ice, ice, ice after exercise if you are sore or injured. Ice will decrease any inflammation that may be occurring at the site of injury or the overused joints. If the soreness continues for more than a few days, come see us!