Play Springtime Sports Safely: Safety Tips and Injury Prevention Guideline

With the spring weather rolling in; kids, youth and adults around the U.S. would indulge in spring sports including; baseball, lacrosse, tennis, soccer and track and field. There is no doubt that these outdoor activities would be beneficial for health after long winter hibernation but you can make it more fun and safe by following certain injury prevention guidelines. As April is the National Youth Sports’ Safety Month, Center for Advanced Orthopaedics offers practical tips for the athletes of every age-group that would help to prevent any sports’ related injury and would as well save them from the risk of being permanently sidelined: All the athletes, whether children or adults should go for general medical exam and an orthopedic screening to determine whether they are ready to play or there is a condition that may limit participation.rnProvide your medical history to the coaches or medical staff and tell them about the specific medical conditions, if any.rnMake sure to check all the sports’ related equipments to ensure that they are safe to play with and up to the manufacturers’ standard.rnMonitor the field, if you are playing a field or track sport. Always look out for divots, uneven surfaces, loose goal posts and other conditions that can affect your play.rnBe well-informed regarding the sign & symptoms of concussion; seek immediate medical aid if you suspect the one.rnImmediately report to coach or athletic trainer, if you experience any of the symptoms of exertional heat illnessrnMake sure that there is a proper on-field medical-aid present in case of emergency or injury.rnStretch and warm-up properly before the game. All the major muscles groups involved in game should be stretched properly.rnStay properly hydrated with water or fluids containing electrolytes. Avoid caffeinated sodas, as caffeine can make your body dehydrated.rnEat healthy and lean proteins’ rich nutritious diet including green leafy vegetables and milk.rnRest and relax properly if you feel tired or any of your body part is hurting.rnMaintain some level of physical activity throughout the year. Working out even once or twice a week can prevent injury.rnAthletes who participate in year round sports or who play sports multiple days in a row; should take day-off to avoid burn out or over-use injuries and to rest their tendons and muscles as well.rnSeek medical help if you get hurt or injured. And make sure that your injuries are fully recovered before you return to the sport.rnLearn first aid yourself, it is the best way to manage any emergency before the medical assistance is provided. It is always helpful to keep a first-aid kit handy.rnTry to participate in more than one type of sport or activity. Athletes engaged in more than one type of sports tend to have fewer injuries.rnConsult your doctor for a multi-vitamin or mineral supplement. Vitamin D has been proved to improvise athletic performance & healing process, eliminate information and reduce joint pain.rnRemember to put on your protective gears like; bike helmets, wrist and elbow guards, pads and knee protection. Do not forget to put on braces and casts if prescribed.rnSports and outdoor activities are always beneficial for the health but also make safety the part of the picture. Contact Center for Advanced Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine for any of the sports’ related musculoskeletal pathologies or disorders. It is our topmost priority to provide utmost care and prompt treatment to our patients as per their needs and requirements.