Whether you play football for fun or are a part of a team, you likely know that injuries are far too common. While avoiding them is challenging due to the high-impact nature of the game, you can take steps to reduce the risk. Along with taking guidance from a sports medicine physician, here are a few practices that can help players stay safe. 

3 Tips for Avoiding Injuries While Playing Football

1. Maintain a Good Fitness Routine

All football players should have a year-round fitness regimen they follow. Failing to exercise during the off-season increases the risk of injury, especially if you overexert yourself on the field. Regular exercise helps maintain muscle tissues and ensures the joints remain flexible. With the proper routine, you'll be primed for action once football season rolls around again. 

2. Warm Up and Cool Down Every Time You Play

Light physical activity, such as jogging, will prepare the body for the game. Stretching after a game is also beneficial, as it will relax the muscles and eliminate any accumulated lactic acid. You must perform a warm-up and cool-down routine before and after every game to avoid injuries like sprains and strains. These steps can also help lessen muscle soreness, which is common after intense workouts. 

3. Rest if You Experience an Injury

In addition to receiving treatment from a sports medicine doctor, you must rest after getting hurt. This gives the injury time to heal, which is crucial for an efficient recovery.

Resting also helps avoid new injuries, which can occur if the damage affects your posture or positioning during the game. Follow your doctor's instructions during the healing period and ease yourself back into activity when the time is right. 

If you experience an injury while playing football, visit Orthopedic Associates of Hawaii. Based in Honolulu with offices in Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, they have assisted patients since its founding in 1968. In addition to effective surgical procedures, they provide physical therapy and rehab to facilitate efficient healing. They even offer advanced treatments like cartilage restoration therapy. Visit them online to learn more about their sports medicine services, and schedule an appointment by calling (808) 536-2261 today.