Sports Medicine

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Whether playing sports indoors or outdoors or exercising, sports injuries are common. Ineffective stretching or warm-up exercises, accidents, insufficient training, and improper use of protective devices can lead to injuries. Sprains, strains, fractures, and dislocations are the most common sports injuries.

RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation and is the most widely recommended treatment for injuries.

Don't engage in activities that could lead to injury: Rest.

• You can reduce swelling and pain by applying ice packs to the injured area. Apply ice to the affected area several times a day, for 15-20 minutes, using a towel as a covering for the affected area. Directly applying ice to the skin should never be done.
• Swelling can also be reduced by compressing the injured area. This can be accomplished using elastic wraps, air casts, and splints.
• Swelling and pain can be reduced by elevating the injured part above your heart level.
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Preventing sports-related injuries can be achieved by taking the following measures:

• Strengthen your muscles by exercising.
• Avoid overdoing the exercise and gradually increase your level of activity.
• Playing sports will reduce your risk of injury if you wear proper protective gear such as elbow guards, eyeglasses, facemasks, mouth guards, and athletic shoes.
• Before and after sports activities, do warming-up and cooling-down exercises. Soft tissue injuries can be reduced by stretching muscles, increasing flexibility, and doing exercises.
• If you have just eaten a large meal, avoid exercising immediately afterward.
• Muscles will be nourished by a healthy diet.
• If you are injured or tired, stay away from playing. Play for a while and then take a break.
• Become familiar with all the game rules before you begin playing.
• Playing the sport requires physical fitness.
  
  
  
  

You can contact our office at 949-588-8833, or visit our website at https://www.ocfootdoctor.com/. Our offices are located in Laguna Hills, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, and Costa Mesa.