Common Sports Related Injuries

After a week of sitting at a desk, you may find that your weekend run in the park or tennis match against friends has taken more of a toll on 

your body than you thought—in fact, you may even be dealing with a sports injury! Read on to learn about some of the most common injuries, how to prevent them, and when it's necessary to come into one of Northern Virginia Orthopaedic Specialists' offices in either Manassas or Haymarket, VA, for treatment!

More about Sports Injuries

Some of the most common sports injuries include,

• Strains and sprains
• Fractures
• Knee injuries (ACL tear or strain)
• Shin splints
• Shoulder injuries
• Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
• Pulled groin or hamstring
• Tennis elbow

Strains and sprains are often to blame for most sports-related injuries. Caused by ligaments that are overworked or overstretched, strained or sprained muscles can cause tears in the tissue if they are left untreated. While strains and sprains are usually a minor problem, if the symptoms aren’t properly managed or if the patient doesn’t take time to rest, the problem can become much worse.

How to Prevent Sports Injuries

The goal of our orthopaedic specialists in Manassas and Haymarket, VA, is to provide you with the care and advice you need to prevent injuries in the first place, no matter if you are a professional athlete or a weekend warrior. Here are some tips to help reduce your risk for injury,

Warm-Up First

You would be surprised how many people become injured because they didn’t warm-up adequately or at all prior to physical activity. No matter how intense your workout, you should always dedicate 10-15 minutes for a gentle warm-up to get the blood pumping and to improve mobility and flexibility.

Don’t Overdo It

If you haven’t been working out for a while it doesn’t make sense to suddenly go from being inactive to running several miles—you have to work up to it. This includes any type of physical activity whether it be hiking or playing team sports. It’s important that you are working out the proper muscles regularly to ensure that they are ready for the duration or intensity of your activity.

Stop When You’re Fatigued

Does it feel like your muscles have given it just about all they can muster? If you said “yes” then it’s time to call it quits. Don’t try to push through the discomfort or fatigue because this is often when accidents happen. Know when to say enough is enough—trust us, your body will thank you.

Wear Appropriate Protective Gear

From your shoes and socks to your protective kneepads and helmets, it’s important that you are dressed appropriately for your chosen sport. This may involve consulting an employee at your local sporting goods shop or one of our orthopaedic specialists for advice on what protective gear is best for your activity.

Give us a call!

If you are dealing with a sports injury in Manassas or Haymarket, VA, it’s important that you have a doctor who can evaluate and treat your condition as soon as possible. Turn to the team at Northern Virginia Orthopaedic Specialists for help by dialing (703) 369-9070.