Tips to reduce the risk of injury this fall sports season

Fall season is back and Island Sports Physical Therapy in Huntington, NY wants to ensure you stay as healthy as can be all throughout! Everyone is excited to be playing their favorite seasonal sports such as soccer, football, volleyball, and field hockey. While getting ready to get back on the field it’s important that we also build awareness to the importance of injury prevention.

9 tips to reduce the risk of injury:
  • Take time off. Plan to have at least 1 day off per week and at least one month off per year from training so the body can recover. If your body is feeling weak, take yourself out of the game.
  • Wear the right gear.  Players should wear appropriate and properly fit protective equipment such as pads (neck, shoulder, elbow, chest, knee, shin), helmets, mouthpieces, face guards, protective cups, and eyewear. Young athletes should not assume that protective gear will prevent all injuries while performing more dangerous or risky activities.
  • Strengthen muscles. Conditioning exercises during practice to strengthen the muscles used in play. Strong muscles can handle injuries better.
  • Increase flexibility. Stretching exercises after games or practice can increase flexibility. Stretching should also be incorporated into a daily fitness plan.
  • Use the proper technique. This should be consistent with your training during the playing season.
  • Take breaks. Rest periods during practice and games can reduce injuries and prevent heat illness.
  • Play safe. Strict rules against headfirst sliding (baseball and softball), spearing (football), and checking (in hockey) should be enforced.
  • Do not play through pain. It will only make the potential injury worse.
  • Avoid heat illness by drinking plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise or play. Decrease or stop practices during extreme temperatures, wear light clothing.
Your health should be the number one priority during the season for every athlete. In order to help your team win you need to help yourself! If you leave your injuries unattended it will only result in more time being off the field. Make sure to visit Island Sports Physical Therapy in Huntington, NY to take care of your sports injuries today.