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5 Common Fall Sports Injuries and How to Avoid Them
Fall brings changing leaves and the excitement of sports like football, soccer, cross-country, and even cheerleading. But with the season also comes an uptick in sports-related injuries.
The good news? Many of these injuries can be prevented with the right strategies and precautions. Pavel Muradov, MD, at Integrity Orthopedics, located in Katy, Texas, can help you stay healthy this season by revealing the five most common fall sports injuries and what you can do to stay safe.
1. Ankle sprains
Twisting or rolling an ankle is one of the most common injuries in fall sports. It often happens when athletes land awkwardly, change direction quickly, or play on uneven ground. The best prevention tips include:
- Warming up before practices and games
- Wearing supportive shoes that fit well
- Strengthening ankle and calf muscles with targeted exercises
Taking these steps can reduce the risk of sprains and help you recover faster if they do occur.
2. Knee injuries
From ACL tears to meniscus strains, knee injuries are especially common in high-impact fall sports like football and soccer. These injuries can sideline athletes for weeks or even months.
To prevent this, focus on strengthening your quadriceps, hamstrings, and hips. You can also practice proper jumping and landing techniques. Plus, using braces or wraps may also help keep your knees stable.
3. Concussions
Contact sports like football, lacrosse, and soccer often carry a risk of concussions. Even cheerleading or gymnastics can cause head injuries if falls occur. Here’s what you can do to prevent it:
- Always wear properly fitted helmets when required
- Learn and follow safe tackling or contact techniques
- Report symptoms like dizziness, headaches, or confusion immediately
Early recognition and care are essential for safe recovery.
4. Shoulder injuries
Sports that involve throwing, tackling, or repetitive arm motions (like football, volleyball, and cheer) put strain on your shoulders. Dislocations, strains, and rotator cuff injuries are common.
You can avoid these injuries by strengthening the muscles around your shoulder and upper back, warming up before practices and games, and incorporating rest days to prevent overuse. By protecting your shoulder, you help ensure mobility and long-term joint health.
5. Shin splints
Lastly, athletes like cross-country runners or soccer players are prone to shin splints, which cause pain along the shinbone. The best prevention includes wearing supportive shoes and replacing them regularly, gradually increasing training intensity, and stretching to strengthen the calves and shins — all of which help keep the pain at bay.
In the end, sports injuries don’t have to ruin your season. By strengthening key muscle groups, wearing the right gear, and listening to your body, you can stay active and safe.
If you do experience any injury and need immediate care, don’t hesitate to call us at 832-219-1186 or use our scheduling tool to request an appointment with Dr. Muradov today!
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