The start of the school year also means the start of the fall sports season.  Back to school means it’s back to sports.

Being involved in sports is a great way to learn social and disciplinary skills, but also leaves you at risk to injury during play.

Sports injuries are usually due to overuse, direct impact, or the application of force that is greater than the body part can withstand.

Two kinds of sports injuries occur:

• Acute – an injury that occurs suddenly, such as a sprained ankle caused by an awkward landing.
• Chronic – an injury caused by overuse of muscle groups or joints, or poor technique that can contribute to structural abnormalities.

Some common sports injuries that occur include:

Bumps and scrapes

• Minor cuts
• Stitches
• Ankle/foot sprains
• Hamstring strain
• Shin splints
• Tennis elbow

How to Prevent Sports Injuries

You can reduce your risk of sports injuries by:

• Warming up before play with light stretching of muscles actively used
• Wearing the appropriate footwear
• Using the appropriate safety equipment including mouth guards, helmets, and pads
• Taping or strapping vulnerable joints
• Drinking plenty fluids before, during, and after the game
• Practicing strength training to ensure overall fitness and muscle strength
• Practicing e good form and technique
• Allowing adequate recovery time between sessions
• Having regular physicals to assess current health and detect underlying conditions

Where to Get Help for Injuries

AFC Urgent Care Fairfield offers a range of  medical services for athletes, from sports physicals to sports injury treatment.  For more information on the services we provide, please call us at 203-583-8400.