| Kelsey-Seybold Orthopedics
| |
 |
Steven Seefeldt, M.D., a Sports Medicine specialist at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, offers several tips for stopping sports injuries before they start.
Water, Water Everywhere
“Hydration is a key to healthy families. Dehydration is commonly overlooked, but it’s actually a leading cause of hospitalization during Houston’s hot and humid months,” says Dr. Seefeldt.
Stretching and Warming Up
“Ankle sprains are the most common injury that I see in young athletes and weekend warriors,” says Dr. Seefeldt. “Be sure to warm up your muscles with good stretching techniques. Take 10 minutes before any exercise to warm up and stretch the muscles you will be using during an activity.”
Rest When You Are Tired
“Injuries are more likely to happen when you’re tired, so know your body’s limits,” stresses Dr. Seefeldt. “Rest when you’re tired.”
Don’t Play with Pain
“Pay attention to pain. Anything persistent or that comes after an injury should be looked at by your healthcare provider or specialist,” says Dr. Seefeldt. “General soreness is to be expected when beginning any new sport, and can be normal. Training and listening to your body are keys to preventing general soreness and injury.”
Wear the Right Gear
“Players should wear appropriate protective equipment such as pads (especially for the neck, shoulder, elbow, chest, knee and shin), as well as helmets, mouthpieces, face guards, protective cups, and/or eyewear,” emphasizes Dr. Seefeldt.
Have These at Your Fingertips
No matter what activity you and your kids enjoy most, be sure to keep these items handy:
