subject: Knee And Shoulder Injuries: Risks For High School Or College Athletes [print this page] As a high school or college level athlete, if you have sustained an injury playing or practicing your favorite sport on the field, an arthroscopic surgery specialist in Orange County can help you overcome the injury and return to the field. Knee and shoulder injuries occur in a wide range of sports, including football, soccer, basketball, hockey, lacrosse and many other non-contact sports as well.
According to a study carried out by the Center for Injury Research and Policy and published in the June 2008 issue of The American Journal of Sports Medicine, knee injuries for high school athletes are a growing cause of concern and contribute to maximum sports-related surgeries. The most common knee injuries include contusions, incomplete ligament tears, torn cartilage, complete ligament tears, muscle tears, fractures or dislocations. Young athletes are at a greater risk of anterior cruciate ligament or ACL injuries. And if you are starting to feel pain in your knee, its time to see a knee injury specialist, as surgical reconstruction is the most common method to facilitate return to play.
Avoiding Injury
Though arthroscopic surgery, an Orange County orthopedic specialist can help you overcome your injury. But it is always best to make efforts to avoid injury in the first place. On your own, you can improve your overall health, strength, and fitness levels, which is important to help you stay fit and prevent injury. Jumping exercises are especially useful in preventing knee injuries and building strength. Here are some other tips to help you avoid injury:
Identify your fitness levels and then compare the same with the demands of your sport.
Check your weight. Any excess weight puts pounds of pressure on the kneecap.
Replace your shoes frequently. Researchers believe that athletes' footwear also play a role in injury risk on the field.
Hydrate properly to minimize cramps and maintain health.
Follow a proper warm-up routine.
Incorporate strength training on a consistent basis.
Conduct a health and wellness evaluation before the season begins.
Wear the required safety gear while training or playing.
Avoid playing through the pain and follow your doctors treatment instructions carefully for early recovery.
Speak with a sports medicine professional about any injury concerns and injury prevention strategies.
Getting Help
Despite taking precautions, if you suffer a shoulder or knee injury, it is best to see an arthroscopic surgery specialist in Orange County right away. Since the shoulder and knee can suffer from debilitating injuries and cause long-lasting disability if not treated in time, an orthopedic surgeon can come to your rescue.
