Sports injury tips and facts, plus advice on when to see a doctor

Whether you are a weekend warrior or a member of a sports team, keep the following injury tips, facts and advice in mind!

Around 250,000 people per year are treated in ERs for sports related injuries. The most common include:

Sprains and fractures: Knees and ankles are especially vulnerable to injury because of the quick stops and starts especially in soccer. In addition, player collisions and awkward falls can result in fractures.

Strains and tears: ACL injuries are common in soccer, as are groin, hamstring and quad pulls. Depending on the severity, the remedies range from simple rest to reconstructive surgery.

Concussions: Head-on collisions can result in brain trauma in many sports — and around 200,000 athletes get concussions every year in the U.S.

Preventing injuries is no mystery

Always remember to:

• Warm up and stretch your muscles before hitting the pitch.
• Cooling down and stretching after playing is also essential.
• Stay hydrated whenever you exercise — 24 oz. of water before playing and at least 8 oz. for every 20 minutes during exercise is a good rule of thumb.
• Equipment plays a part in preventing injuries, as well: shin guards, the right sneakers or cleats and padding on the goal posts can help keep players safe.

When should you see an orthopedic doctor

While it is impossible to list all the reasons you should see a doctor if you think you have an orthopedic (musculoskeletal) injury, in general, severe pain, inability to use the extremity or worsening pain or function would be reasons to see a doctor. Examples orthopedic injuries that should send you to a doctor include:

• Dislocation or loss of alignment of the bones.
• Fractured bones sticking out of the skin.
• Heavy bleeding (such as from a laceration) associated with the injury.
• Inability to bear weight or walk on the affected leg in the case of leg injury.
• inability to move the arm in the case of arm injury.
• A joint that is hot, swollen, and tender.
• A sprain or strain that is not getting better after a week of conservative therapy, such as rest, ice, immobilization, ibuprofen or acetaminophen and elevation of the extremity.