Preventing Sports Injuries
Causes of sports injuries may include:
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Improper or poor training practices
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Wearing improper sporting gear
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Being in poor health condition
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Poor nutrition/hydration
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Common sports injuries include:
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Sprains and strains
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Joint injuries (knee)
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Muscle injuries
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Dislocations
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Fractures
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Achilles tendon injuries
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Pain along the shin bone
3 main tips to prevent sports injuries
Focus on Techniques
Proper technique ensures that your muscles and joints move biomechanically efficiently, distributing forces appropriately across the body. I've seen many runners when they are tired, started to use more energy focusing on their stronger side of their body, example right leg. Incorrect movement patterns can lead to muscle imbalances, overloading certain muscle groups and putting excessive stress on joints. This increases the risk of acute injuries as well as chronic injuries.
Listen to your body
Pain is your body signalling that something is wrong. Pain can be an indication of tissue damage or overloading. Ignoring pain and pushing through can lead to adverse effects, potentially causing more severe injuries. It's important to distinguish between the discomfort of pushing your limits and actual pain that indicates potential harm.
Hydration and nutrition
Dehydration can impair muscle function, reducing strength and endurance and increasing the risk of cramps and injuries. We should drink 4 cups of water per day. Proper substantial nutrition provides the necessary nutrients for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. Nutrient deficiencies can weaken tissues and impair the body's ability to recover from exercise-induced stress. Ensuring a high protein intake will help us grow and maintain muscle mass to improve and reduce injuries.