The most injuries from recreational sports are basketball and bicycling, which cause 1.5 million accidents annually. Softball, softball and baseball are closely followed with each having almost half a billion. injuriesThe U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that this figure is approximately yearly.
It doesn’t really matter if your practice schedule is full or if you are a parent of student athletes heading back to school.
Marcel Fraix, an osteopathic physician and fellow of the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation(FAAPMR), shares some helpful tips. Fraix also works as a staff physician at Casa Colina Centers for Rehabilitation, California. He specializes in sports-related disorders.
* Start with a check-up when possible. When combined with a medical condition, or a heart problem, physical stress can lead to serious health problems. Also, if you are older and sedentary, have your heart checked before stressing your heart.
Specific sports require pre-conditioning. Most injuries occur in the first week of the season when you are the most out of shape. To prevent injury to the knees, strengthen your hamstrings.
* Diligently use the proper safety equipment, e.g., mouth guards, safety goggles, helmets and elbow and knee pads. Sunscreen SPF 15 and higher is recommended.
* Stay adequately hydrated with water or a water-electrolyte drink. It is important to replace fluid lost through sweating in order to maximize athletic performance, and prevent heat exhaustion during hot weather.
* Treat injuries on the spot. A first aid kit should be kept on hand for any cuts, scrapes, allergic reactions or insect bites. Remember to get treatment for muscle pain immediately, before it becomes a problem. There are safe, non-scented, and effective pain relievers.
Arnicare Gel, a homeopathic medicine such as Arnicare Gel (www.Arnicare.comIt works with the body, not just to mask pain. You can use it to stiffen your legs after running or cycling, as well as for sore shoulders due to too many tennis racket swings. It is also helpful in relieving pain from straining ligaments or from bumps and bruises caused by hard-fought basketball games.
* Limit practice and playing time. Overdoing it is responsible for nearly half of all child injuries. You might consider allowing your child to take three months off for each sport, and to limit practice to twelve hours per week for the other.
