Common Spring Sports Injuries and How to Avoid Them

As the weather warms up, the spring sports season begins. Whether you’re playing soccer, basketball, or just running outside, it’s exciting to be active again. But after months of rest during the winter, jumping into more intense activity can sometimes lead to injuries. These injuries can be painful, but the good news is, they can usually be prevented. Here are six common spring sports injuries and tips on how to stay safe.

• Ankle sprains: Ankle sprains are very common in sports like basketball, soccer, and running. They happen when the ligaments around your ankle get stretched or torn, often from twisting your ankle or landing awkwardly. To help prevent sprains, make sure to wear supportive shoes, always warm up before you start playing, and don’t rush back into activity too quickly. If you sprain your ankle, it’s important to see a doctor to heal properly.

• Tennis elbow: Tennis elbow doesn’t just happen to tennis players. It can affect anyone who uses their arms a lot in sports, like baseball or golf. It happens when the tendons in your elbow get hurt from overuse. You can avoid tennis elbow by using the right technique, stretching your arms, and not pushing yourself too hard. If you start to feel pain, take a break and talk to a doctor.

• Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is when the bottom of your foot hurts, especially around the heel. It’s common for runners or people who jump into too much exercise too fast. To prevent this pain, wear shoes with good arch support, stretch your feet before you exercise, and increase your activity slowly, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. If your feet hurt, it’s important to see a doctor to prevent more serious issues.

• Shin splints: Shin splints are a pain along the inside of your shin, and they usually happen when you suddenly start running or jumping a lot. Runners, soccer players, and dancers are especially at risk. To prevent shin splints, make sure your shoes are the right fit, stretch before you play, and don’t push yourself too hard too soon.

• Groin strains: Groin strains happen when the muscles in your inner thigh get stretched too far, usually from quick starts and stops. Sports like soccer and football can cause injuries. To avoid groin strains, warm up before you play and focus on strengthening your inner thigh muscles.

• Hamstring strains: Hamstring strains are injuries to the muscles in the back of your thigh, and they often happen in sports like soccer or track and field. To prevent hamstring injuries, make sure you warm up with stretches and work on strengthening your hamstrings.

By following these tips and listening to your body, you can avoid many injuries this spring. If you get hurt, don’t wait—see a doctor to heal and stay safe all season!