More than 3.5 million sports-related injuries occur each year, many of which are the result of exercising too vigorously without proper conditioning.
“Most injuries occur in muscles and ligaments, and only a small percentage involve broken bones,” says Joseph Bosco III, MD, orthopedic surgeon at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. “Thoroughly
warming up and stretching muscles before engaging in rigorous exercise will greatly reduce the risk of injury.”
Gradually increasing your level of activity over a period of four to six weeks before high-intensity exercise is best. Performing 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise three days a week and working up
to 45 minutes four or five times a week is a safe way to build
endurance and prevent future injuries.
Proper Equipment
No matter your level of fitness, protective equipment should always be worn when participating in sports with a risk of head injury or falling at a high rate of speed. Sports such as biking, skateboarding, rollerblading, and baseball pose a risk of serious head injury if participants do not wear proper head protection. Wrist guards,
kneepads, and mouthpieces should also be worn when appropriate.
Hydration
Dehydration can occur before you realize the problem. Fluid intake before, during, and after a summer activity is recommended —especially when temperatures rise above 90 degrees. Drink one to two cups of water an hour before, at least one-half cup every 15 minutes during, and one cup 30 minutes after exercising. If you suffer a summer sports injury and need to schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital’s Department of Orthopedics, please call 718-206-6923.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.