As spring arrives, so does the urge to get outside and get in the game, whether it’s baseball, golf, tennis, or other outdoor activities. Along with this urge to get out comes an increase in the number of springtime sports injuries.
At Commonwealth Pain Management and Wellness in Richmond, Virginia, we’d like to help you bypass the urgent care queues with some tips on how to transition into spring sports without the risk of typical season changeover issues.
It’s easy to equate spring weather with freshness and healthy living after being cooped up for the winter. Perhaps it’s a bit counterintuitive that injuries accompany this change of seasons, at least until you consider the reasons behind the injuries.
You may be set up for an injury by your winter activity levels, whether you remain active or stay sedentary.
Lost muscle condition is easy to understand as you ramp up in the spring, but even those who keep working out through the cool months can be at risk. Sports-specific muscles may not get the focus they need.
Spring also means a transition in surfaces, from smooth, consistent hard courts to uneven and unpredictable surfaces like asphalt and turf. Early spring also brings a wider range of temperatures.
Knowing the most common injuries can help you prepare to avoid them. Be on alert for sports injuries like:
Check gear like shoes and protective equipment for wear. Replace or repair equipment to stay safe.
Consider these strategies and apply them to your spring return-to-sports routine:
Ten minutes of light cardio and flexibility stretches improve blood flow and prepare your body for more intense activity.
Varying workouts help you avoid sports-specific repetitive strain injuries. Similarly, scheduled downtime gives your body time to heal micro-injuries that are part of muscle and strength development.
Water throughout physical activity prevents cramping and, as temperatures rise, keeps your body cool. Staying well-hydrated keeps your body working well.
In both workouts and games, dial back your maximum efforts in the early part of the season. Too much, too soon is a recipe for strain injuries.
After a winter layoff, check that your body mechanics are still working efficiently. Schedule a session with a trainer or club pro to assure that your form isn’t working against you.
Staying injury-free in the spring is easier with the right preparation. Should aches and pains add up, our team at Commonwealth Pain Management and Wellness, led by Savitri Gopaul, FNP-BC, is ready to help. Call or click to book an appointment when you need assistance with pain management.
