Competing in athletics has wonderful physical and psychological benefits, but it also comes with the threat of injury that will sideline athletes and prevent them from progressing. Spine and Sport Rehabilitation Medical Director and CEO Jordan Sudberg explains that the majority of sports injuries can be prevented with the right steps. The following are tips that are needed to avoid injury and optimize performance, according to Dr. Sudberg’s experience in sports rehabilitation and pain management.
Prioritize Proper Warm-Up and Cool-Down
Dr. Jordan Sudberg, proprietor of Islandia’s Spine and Sport Rehabilitation, a pain management specialist, advises that “a good warm-up and cool-down regimen is the key to preventing injury.” Gradual warming increases blood flow to the muscles and limbers flexibility, preparing the body for strenuous activity. Cooling down also eases muscle soreness and prevents stiffness due to exercise.
Highlight Strength and Flexibility Exercises
A strong and supple body is more resistant to the stresses of sports. Dr. Jordan Sudberg, CEO and Medical Director of Spine and Sports Rehabilitation, says, “Adding specific strength and flexibility exercises tailored to your sport can help prevent joint and muscle overuse injury.” Add exercises building up core strength, balance, and joint stability, which are crucial in the prevention of strains and sprains.
Employ quality gear and supportive equipment
The necessity of the proper equipment cannot be exaggerated. From helmets to shoes, the proper equipment gives essential protection. Dr. Jordan Sudberg recognizes the function of supportive equipment as larger than protection, explaining that “using cushions and foam inserts, such as those provided by The Foam Factory, in things such as chair cushions or patio furniture cushions, can minimize impact stress on your body at rest and recovery.” For participants in sports, cushioned shoes or specially designed foam inserts in shoes can decrease the opportunity for injury by a significant margin.
Maintain Good Technique and Form
Poor form is a leading sport injury cause. Dr. Jordan Sudberg cites professional instruction and self-reflection as essential, saying, “Learning and using appropriate form is one of the easiest and best ways for staying injury-free.” Regular visits to trainers or rehab specialists can identify and correct harmful patterns of movement before they lead to sport injuries.
Listen to Your Body and Rest Adequately
Overtraining is also a common cause of injury. Islandia, New York-based Spine and Sport Rehabilitation co-founder Dr. Jordan Sudberg recommends “paying attention to your body’s cues and giving it adequate rest and recovery time.” Ignoring pain or fatigue can cause compounding injuries. Providing supportive mattress foam or foam replacement items for your pet bed or your sleeping sites can improve overall quality of recovery.
In Summary
Sports injury reduction is a process with steps in preparation, equipment, technique, and recovery. Dr. Jordan Sudberg, Medical Director and CEO of Spine and Sport Rehabilitation in NY, offers lessons that remind athletes not to neglect these steps in a bid to be in a position to maintain peak performance and longevity in sports. With these steps included in your program, you can minimize chances of injury and enjoy a safer and more rewarding sports experience.
Also read: Jordan Sudberg: Pioneering the Future of Pain Management