How to prevent and recover from sports injuries

Whether you're playing organized sports or just getting back into regular exercise, injuries can happen quickly, even to those in good shape.

Common trouble spots include knees, hips, shoulders and wrists. Improper form, overuse and lack of preparation can all increase the risk of strains, sprains or worse.

Injury Prevention Tips

To reduce the risk of injury, Mo Smith from Bailey Bariatrics emphasizes proper training, good sleep habits, hydration and nutrition.

Adults should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night and fuel their bodies with protein and water. Learning the correct form and foot placement from a knowledgeable coach or trainer is also key.

Initial Treatment and Therapy

For minor injuries, initial care should include icing, elevating the affected area, and possibly using Epsom salt baths or muscle rubs like Biofreeze.

Tools like massage guns or TENS units can help relieve tension and stimulate healing. For more serious injuries, a physical therapist can provide guided exercises and recovery plans.

Managing Pain Safely

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories like meloxicam can help manage pain, but they come with potential side effects. Smith advises monitoring gut health and avoiding overuse of medications that may dull healing progress.

Unmanaged pain can increase cortisol levels and further hinder recovery.

Healthy Habits Make a Difference

Staying active as you age is important, but knowing your limits and starting with a solid foundation of healthy habits can prevent setbacks.

When injuries do occur, early intervention and the right support can make all the difference.