Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt

We all love summer, especially since it allows us to be outdoors, exercise and play sports that

we can’t play during the colder months.

For the athletes and recreational sport players though, this is also a red hot time for injuries.

According to The Department of Health and Human Services, 2 million people are injured

because of sports (whether team or individually played) every year.

Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt

In the summertime, these sports cause the most injuries:

• Bicycling
• Basketball
• Baseball and Softball
• Football
• Soccer

Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt
Seeing teams of injuries every summer because of sports is Dr. Sean Lager, Orthopedic Surgeon

of Gotham City Orthopedics in NYC and New Jersey.

Dr. Lager saves the lives of Gotham City (aka: NYC) just as the crime-fighting Batman, but he

adds a day and night protection twist, keeping his practice open 24/7.

According to Dr. Lager, Gotham City Orthopedics sees an increased number of injuries across

all ages during summer.

The most common injury is fractures due to falls during sports.

Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt

Summer Sport Safety Tips

He gives these safety tips to all athletes for their summer games, or sports players for their

recreational activities:

Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt

#1. Make equipment your best friend

Equipment is important such as helmets, elbow caps, wrist guards, knew guards are all

helpful in trying to reduce the risk of fractures.

Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt

#2. Be wary of the dark

Make sure not to stay out too late when there is poor lighting or after dark.

Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt

#3. Pay attention to crowds

Bicyclists in particular need this tip.

Pay attention to people who may be preoccupied on cell phones.

Also keep focused on the rules of the road.

Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt

#4. Keep your skin protected

Wear protective clothing from the sun.

We see burns half the time, it’s very important to use sunscreen as well.

Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt

#5. Stay hydrated

Dehydration during physical activity can contribute to impaired performance, fatigue,

headaches and even mental confusion.

Stay hydrated to ensure your best performance!

Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt

#6. Warm-Up

Before any physical activity, it is important to prime the body with a warm-up.

In a warm-up, you prepare your body for physical activity by increasing your heart rate,

loosening your joints, and increasing blood flow to your muscles.

This preparation will help prepare the body for the more intense physical activity and will

help to prevent injuries.

Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt

#7. Find a workout partner

A workout partner can be an incredible motivator to maintain your exercise regimen.

Not only will you have a spotter during exercises such as weight training, but you will also

have a partner by your side to keep you safe.

Orthopedic Doctor’s Orders: 7 Safety Tips on Summer Sports Injuries to Adopt

 

Have you had sports injuries?

What are you or your family doing to prevent summer sports injuries? 

Share your suggestions, thoughts and comments with us.

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