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Playing sports is an excellent way to get exercise, but it also carries the risk of injury. Proper training, using the correct techniques, and stretching beforehand can help you reduce the chance of a pulled muscle or strain, but accidents can’t always be prevented. However, awareness of the most common types of sports injuries can help you take steps to avoid them. Here, the physical therapists at Step By Step Physical Therapy in Warsaw, NY, list four injuries they see frequently in their practice and how to avoid them.

4 Common Sports Injuries & How to Avoid Them

1. Shin Splints

This injury occurs as a result of the repetitive force of the leg and foot striking hard surfaces and is common in runners and soccer players. Pain is felt on the inner side of the shinbone. It’s more likely to affect those who have just started a new sport, so to prevent shin splints, make sure you don’t increase your activity level too quickly, and buy shoes with a good arch support.

2. Groin Strain

The inner muscles of the upper thigh can become strained as a result of quick lateral movements, such as those that occur with tennis, basketball, or hockey. The result is pain and swelling, as well as difficulty changing positions. Adequate stretching and flexibility can protect against these painful sports injuries.

3. Tennis Elbow

The repeated arm and wrist movements associated with tennis and golf can cause lateral epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow. Inflammation of the arm tendons makes movements painful and results in a loss of strength. To prevent it, strengthening exercises, stretching, and even a wrist brace can help. Rehabilitation after this injury usually requires physical therapy.

4. Knee Injury physical-therapist-Warsaw-New-York

The knee bears the brunt of force in many sports, so it’s very susceptible to injury. From damaged cartilage to ACL tears, a range of problems are possible. Physical therapists recommend strengthening your quadriceps, choosing softer surfaces for running, and resting between sports days as preventative measures.

If you suffer from sports injuries, seek treatment from a physical therapist before it turns into a chronic problem. The team at Step By Step Physical Therapy has the experience and tools necessary to treat the underlying source of your pain so that you can return to activity sooner. Through exercise, training, and cutting-edge rehabilitation techniques, they’ll devise a treatment plan customized to work for you. For a consultation, call (585) 786-8700 or visit their website to learn more.

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