Spring Activity Comes with Injury Risks—Know What to Watch For
As the weather warms up and spring returns, so does the urge to get outside, get active, and enjoy your favorite sports. Whether it’s baseball, tennis, soccer, or running, spring is the season when many athletes, both amateur and experienced, get back in the game. However, with the return of the warm weather comes a higher risk of sports injuries like ankle sprains, tennis elbow, and more.
Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are incredibly common in spring sports, especially in activities that involve running, jumping, or quick changes in direction, like soccer or basketball. A sprain happens when the ligaments in your ankle stretch or tear, usually from a misstep or awkward landing. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. While mild sprains may heal with rest, more severe injuries may require medical attention, including physical therapy or bracing.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Despite the name, tennis elbow isn’t just for tennis players. This overuse injury affects the tendons in your forearm, often from repetitive wrist and arm motions. It’s common in racket sports, baseball, and even golf. Pain usually starts on the outside of the elbow and can worsen with gripping or lifting. Treatment often includes rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, injections or other interventions.
Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
As runners hit the trails again in the spring, knee pain is a frequent complaint. Runner’s knee refers to pain around or behind the kneecap, usually caused by overuse, poor alignment, or muscle imbalances. It’s not limited to runners: cyclists and other athletes can also suffer from it. Strengthening exercises, proper footwear, and adjusting your training routine can help alleviate pain.
Shoulder Injuries
Sports that involve throwing, like baseball and softball, often lead to shoulder injuries. Rotator cuff strains and shoulder impingement are common and can cause pain, limited range of motion, and weakness. These injuries tend to develop over time and may worsen without proper care.
Shin Splints
Shin splints are a classic springtime issue for runners and athletes returning after a break. They cause pain along the shinbone and are usually due to overtraining or poor running mechanics. Rest, ice, and gradual return to activity are essential for recovery. If left untreated, a shin splint can develop into a fracture.
Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs
Many sports injuries don’t show immediate symptoms. Pain, swelling, or reduced mobility might appear hours or even days later. Ignoring early signs can lead to more severe damage and longer recovery times. If you’re unsure whether you’ve been seriously hurt, it’s always best to get checked out by a specialist. IMC Bone Doc offers same-day appointments across New York, so you can get answers fast.
How To Prevent Spring Sports Injuries
While not every injury can be avoided, there are simple steps you can take to reduce the risk this spring season:
- Warm up properly: Start with light cardio and dynamic stretching to get your muscles ready for activity.
- Don’t skip the cool down: Gentle stretching after a workout helps prevent stiffness and aids recovery.
- Ease back in: If you’ve been inactive during the winter, gradually increase your activity level instead of jumping in full force.
- Use the right gear: Make sure your equipment and footwear fit properly and are appropriate for your sport.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can affect performance and increase the risk of cramps or muscle strains.
- Listen to your body: Don’t ignore pain or push through discomfort; it could be a sign of an injury.
- See a specialist if needed: If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait. Getting a proper diagnosis early can prevent a minor issue from becoming a serious one.
When to See a Sports Injury Doctor
Don’t wait to seek help if you experience:
- Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest
- Swelling or bruising that worsens over time
- Limited range of motion or instability
- Numbness or tingling in the injured area
- Pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities
Trust IMC Bone Doc For Experienced Medical Care
At IMC Bone Doc, we specialize in diagnosing, treating, and helping you recover from sports injuries—so you can get back to doing what you love. Our NYC-based team of orthopedic surgeons provides personalized care and treatments, whether you need therapy, injections, or surgical solutions.
Whether you’re recovering from a weekend basketball injury or dealing with chronic knee pain from running, our NYC sports injury specialists are here to help. If you’re dealing with a sports-related injury, don’t wait it out. Contact us today, and take the first step toward healing.
"Dr. Jupiter was very thorough in assisting me with my condition. He assigned other tests to help me understand my injury, and he and his staff were professional during the entire process." - Robert H., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
