Heading back to school begins a new year of Fall sports and unfortunately the risk of sports-related injuries. Common sports injuries are typically easy to treat, but that doesn’t mean they’re not painful. Sports injuries at school can also derail more than the rest of the season; a single injury may turn into a chronic issue if it’s not treated properly. It’s best to treat injuries when they occur to prevent long-term effects.

Ankle Sprains

Sprained ankles are very common, resulting when the ligaments in your ankle are overstretched or experience a tear. A sprained ankle often occurs during jumping and running, but can result any time the ankle is turned at an unnatural angle or experiences too much stress. The best way to prevent an ankle sprain is to make sure your ankles have ample support, from the proper shoes to wrapping tape. If you experience an ankle sprain, ice and elevation are the easiest way to treat it.

Shin Splints

Shin splints are common in long distance runners, recognizable as pain in the lower front portion of your leg. The best way to avoid this uncomfortable condition is to slowly increase the distance you run rather than going for gold on the first outing. Proper stretching before each run will also help stave off shin pain.

Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is an overuse injury. When your forearm tendons become inflamed due to repetitive motion, it becomes painful to grip a racket and swing your arm. This injury can affect golfers as well as tennis players. Prevention involves implementing a healthy routine of exercise mixed with ample rest periods. An arm brace may also be necessary to avoid the condition if it becomes a chronic issue.

While stretching helps with blood flow and muscle flexibility, proper form and a healthy workout routine are also key to avoiding these and other common sports injuries. To go back to school without groin, back, leg injuries and more, start slow and recognize early signs of injury. If you experience a sports injury, visit Physicians Urgent Care for treatment and advice.