Heat-related injuries are some of the most common problems faced by athletes (and others) during the summer months. Some of the most common heat-related injuries include:
There are several steps you can take to avoid heat-related injuries. First, it's important to stay hydrated. Take a large, reusable water bottle with you wherever you go, especially if you'll be exercising. It's also a good idea to avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these can dehydrate the body.
Second, try to exercise during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or evening. Midday tends to be the hottest part of the day, so it's best to avoid strenuous activity then. If you must exercise during the daytime, try exercising in an air-conditioned area. That may mean hitting the gym or just taking a walk around the local mall, depending on your preferred activity.
Third, wearing light, loose-fitting clothing can also help keep your body temperature down. Light clothing is more breathable and will help you to sweat more, which can actually help cool your body down. Loose-fitting clothing, on the other hand, allows your skin to breathe and will also help you to sweat more.
Fourth, be sure to acclimate gradually to hot weather. If you're not used to exercising in the heat, start slowly and increase your activity level and the intensity of your workouts gradually.
Finally, it's important to listen to your body. If you're feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous, stop what you're doing and get out of the heat. These could be early signs of a heat-related injury, so it's best to err on the side of caution.
Sports injuries are some of the most common injuries athletes suffer from in the summer, as there are more opportunities to play sports outdoors. Some of the most common sports injuries include:
There are several steps you can take to prevent sports injuries. First, it's important to warm up properly and do stretching exercises before playing any sport. This will help loosen your muscles and increase your heart rate, which can help prevent injuries. Warm muscles are far less prone to injury than 'cold muscles,' making it extremely important to take the time to warm up.
Second, be sure to cool down after playing any sport. You might not know it, but cooling down is just as important as warming up! Rather than coming to a sudden stop, gradually reduce the intensity of your activity to allow your heart rate to slowly return to normal. This will help your muscles recover and prevent cramping.
Third, be sure to wear the proper protective equipment for your sport. This might include things like helmets, pads, face guards, mouth guards, and even protective cups. Wearing the proper equipment can help protect you from serious injuries in the event of a collision or fall.
Fourth, try shaking things up every once in a while! For instance, if you normally play tennis, try playing other sports like basketball or soccer, or try a new activity like swimming or strength training. This will help you avoid overuse injuries caused by repetitive motions.
Finally, it's important to know your limits. Don't try to do more than you're physically capable of. This is especially important if you're just starting to play a sport or if you're coming back from a previous injury. Plus, just like when preventing heat-related injuries, it's important to listen to your body. If you're experiencing pain, take a moment to rest and seek treatment if necessary. Ignoring pain can lead to more serious injuries down the road, especially if your sports injury is left untreated.
It's important that parents of young athletes be aware of potential sports injuries, but even if your child isn't yet old enough to play a recreational sport, they may still be at risk of injury. From minor bumps and bruises to sprains and broken bones, the playground can be a dangerous place if children and their parents aren't careful.
There are several things parents can do to help prevent playground injuries:
Going to the pool is a summer staple, but it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with swimming. Whether you're planning on doing laps or taking the whole family out for some fun, there are a few things to be aware of:
With warmer weather comes the perfect opportunity to get outside and explore on two wheels. But before you hop on your bike, it's important to be aware of the potential risks:
As with any outdoor activity, it's important to take precautions to avoid injury. By following these basic tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for everyone.
However, if an injury should occur, visit a healthcare provider for treatment. Depending on your injury, physical therapy
If you experience an injury, pain, or discomfort when participating in your favorite activity this summer, make sure to visit the physical therapists at Performance UNLIMITED. Schedule an appointment with us online to take control of your recovery.