Sports and Injuries, Prevention and Care
Photo by Terry Shultz
Now that we are back at Centenary and anticipating games and meets for our spring season sports, it’s time to talk about the risk of injury. With basketball, swimming, gymnastics, baseball, softball, lacrosse, dance, and cheer planning to compete or perform this semester, the threat of athletic incapacitation seems daunting. Looking at national rates of injury for all sports, athletes typically see the highest risk during games; however, injuries can still happen during practices. Of pre-season, in-season, and post-season practices, pre-season practices account for the most cases of athlete injury with the most popular injury as the classic ankle sprains.
In addition to searching for information online, I also spoke to Centenary’s athletic trainer Bridget Ng. Extremely approachable, knowledgeable, and gracious, she offered a plethora of great advice. Of course, the first thing I had to know was which sports she associated the most injuries with. After thinking for a moment, she decided on women’s soccer and gymnastics. We didn’t discuss specific types of injuries, but we did address some general tips to avoid getting hurt in any sport.
Photo by Jackson Simmer
Bridget stressed, “The main thing is that athletes have to be accountable for themselves and be consistent with me and with their coaches.” Expanding on this idea, she said that she is aware that coaches can tell athletes what to do, but it is up to them to pay attention to detail. One small muscle, a part of a larger system participating in a skill, can be the difference between health and injury. Athletes who understand the particular anatomy at work may, in turn, suffer fewer strains, tears, sprains, etc.
Learning proper techniques, for instance, can go a long way. There are correct methods for running, lifting weights, throwing, and more. Bridget elaborated, “A lot of times they pick up the wrong way, and then there is a long way to recovery.” Your coach is there to ensure that you know the best way to perform, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.
There is more to preventing injuries than technique. Practicing mobility, stretching, and strength conditioning play equally important roles. Mobility refers to a joint’s ability to move freely about while stretching relates to flexibility within the muscles. Warm-ups in the former category should take place before partaking in a game or practice. While in the latter category, stretching should follow physical activity. In any case, strength is necessary to succeed in a sport; this doesn’t happen overnight. Luckily, many practices incorporate regular strength training. So, listen to your body and be familiar with its limitations.
If you find yourself aching, set aside time to communicate with your coach and schedule a meeting with Bridget. I heard that she gives the best, painfully good massages, and she is more than happy to help! Most importantly, take time to evaluate your activities to make sure you are doing what you can to decrease your chances of injury.