Play It Safe To Avoid Spring Injuries

Play It Safe To Avoid Spring Injuries

Play It Safe To Avoid Spring Injuries

Spring is just around the corner and if you’re like our team at Orthopaedic Associates of Connecticut, you can’t wait to get outside to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine. Many of us are inactive over the winter and that can increase the risk of injury. Before heading outdoors to garden, exercise, or play sports, a visit to your family doctor is a good idea if you aren’t active and want to start an exercise program or significantly increase your physical activity.The team at OSC thinks physical activity is good for just about everyone but overdoing it can lead to sprains, strains, tears, and other serious injuries. In order to prevent injury, fitness experts recommend that you start your training program slowly as you work toward your exercise goals.The following tips can help you stay safe and prevent injuries:

  1. Begin your exercise program with low-intensity activities, gradually build up your strength and endurance
  2. Warm-up before exercising and cool down afterward with slow stretching
  3. Wear footwear and clothing that are appropriate for your activity; use recommended protective equipment like helmets, protective eyewear, and body gear
  4. Drink water before, during, and after your work-out to stay properly hydrated
  5. Know your limit in the heat; drink more fluids, take breaks often, and pay attention to signs of heat-related illness
  6. Beware of the weather; immediately head to a safe place in the event of thunder & lightening

Gardening is a great way to enjoy the spring weather but it can be hard work! Lifting heavy bags of soil & mulch and all that bending & stretching can take a toll on muscles and joints. Climbing ladders and wielding power tools can be downright dangerous. These tips can help you enjoy your garden in good health:

  1. Rotate your tasks to avoid repetitive motion; bend at the knees and get help lifting heavy objects
  2. Inspect your tools and equipment to make sure they are in good working order; read & understand instructions for how to operate your power tools safely
  3. Wear safety goggles, earplugs, sturdy footwear, and long pants to prevent injury; wear gloves for protection from irritants & cuts
  4. Use sunscreen to prevent skin damage and insect repellent with DEET to protect yourself from mosquitoes and ticks

Minor aches and pains are common with physical activity and can usually be helped with ice or heat and over-the-counter pain relievers. Overexertion can lead to muscle, joint, and back pain. Working or exercising at a moderate pace will help minimize your chance for sprains, strains, or tears. If you experience severe pain, you are probably overdoing it. For lingering discomfort or severe pain, contact the team at OSC.

Orthopaedic Associates of Connecticut has been providing comprehensive, personalized orthopedic care to our community since 1978. Our team is available for same-day appointments for urgent care. If you injury is complex, our board-certified physicians are available 24 hours a day for emergency room and hospital care.Our goal at OSC is to help you recover and get back to the things you love as quickly as possible. Call our office today to book an appointment: (203) 775-6205.