5 Subtle Signs of SI Joint Dysfunction
SI joint pain is one of the many causes of chronic back discomfort — but you may not realize that’s what you’re dealing with. Read on to learn about the signs of SI joint dysfunction and how we can help.
Preparing for Spring Sports with Injury Prevention
Playing sports is fun and rewarding for kids and adults, but injuries can occur if you don't have the right training or aren’t mindful of injury prevention. Without preparation, you or your child may end up on the sidelines with an injury.
As the spring sports season heats up, it’s essential to consider your and your child’s physical health. If you don’t know where to start, Dr. Steven J. Svabek offers sports medicine appointments at his office in Coral Springs, Florida.
Dr. Svabek is an experienced orthopedic surgeon who provides tips to prevent injury and treatments when injuries do occur, often leading to shoulder, knee, or hip pain.
Common sports injuries
Injuries are an unfortunately common part of sports. Some injuries result from overuse or improper form, others from acute contact or plain bad luck.
Sports injuries range from mild sprains to devastating ACL or rotator cuff tears. The most common sports injuries we see include:
- Sprains and strains
- Fractures
- Concussions
- Tendon injuries
- Cartilage damage
- Ligament tears
- Tendinitis
- Dislocations
Some of these injuries respond well to the RICE method — rest, ice, compression, elevation — and home care, while others require professional treatment.
Even better is to avoid injury in the first place.
Tips to prevent injuries this spring
Don’t wait until the season starts to prepare. We recommend getting a jump on training before the season, including scheduling an evaluation with Dr. Svabek. Here, he offers some additional tips to avoid injury this season:
Take time off
Resting at least one day a week allows the body time to heal and recover. You can stretch, do yoga, or walk on these days to stay active, but avoid exercise and sports practice.
Cross-train
Repetitive-use injuries occur when you overuse one group of muscles or joints, which is why we recommend cross-training. Playing other sports or varying your exercises reduces the likelihood of an overuse injury.
Build strength
Strength training can prevent injuries, especially joint injuries, because it builds muscle. Stronger muscles support and stabilize the joints; as your strength increases, your risk of joint issues decreases.
Increase flexibility
Stretching before and after practice or a game can get your blood flowing and warm up or cool down your muscles.
Learn the right technique
Using proper form can often spare you from preventable injuries. Whether it’s throwing a ball or swinging a racket, learn the best techniques for your sport to avoid getting hurt.
Wear the proper gear
In sports where contact is part of the game, helmets, shoulder pads, mouthguards, and other protective gear play a significant role in preventing sports injuries. Always ensure you have the right gear for the sport you’re playing.
Don’t play through pain
The most important aspect of preventing injury is to avoid playing through pain. If something hurts, stop what you’re doing and get an evaluation to keep from exacerbating an injury.
Don’t let injuries sideline you or your child this spring. Call the office of Steven J. Svabek, DO, PA, or request an appointment online today to learn more about our sports medicine program.
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