WINNING WITHOUT INJURY: EXPERT ADVICE ON SPORTS SAFETY

Sports injuries are increasingly common across all age groups and levels of athletic performance.

- DR. ABHISHEK VAISH

Whether you're a weekend jogger or a professional athlete, injuries can significantly impact performance and lifestyle.

Dr. Abhishek Vaish, a leading orthopedic and sports injury specialist from Indraprastha Apollo Hospital and Healing Touch Clinic, New Delhi, breaks down the factors behind these injuries and how best to treat and prevent them.

Causes of Sports Injuries

Dr. Vaish emphasizes that most sports injuries result from a combination of physical strain, technique errors, and poor preparation. Here are the key contributors:

1. Overuse and Repetitive Stress Continuous use of the same muscle groups without adequate rest. Common in sports like running, swimming, and tennis. The body needs recovery time. Overuse without rest is like driving a car on a worn-out tire.

2. Improper Technique Incorrect posture or form during activity. For example, poor landing technique in basketball can lead to ACL injuries. Even small technical errors can create big problems over time,” he notes.

3. Inadequate Warm-Up and Cool-Down Skipping warm-up increases muscle stiffness and injury risk. A proper warm-up prepares muscles for impact; skipping it is like sprinting on cold rubber,” says Dr. Vaish.

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