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Safe Participation in Sports Activities
All sports played on a professional or casual level have the potential to cause serious injuries. Strained muscles, torn ligaments, and swollen joints are common while other injuries requiring surgery also occur. Most injuries can be avoided with a few proactive measures before playing sports.
Stretching
Simple stretching exercises to warm up the body and relax muscles are critical for safety. General stretches help when preparing to clean the house or do yardwork. There are also recommended stretches for specific sporting activities.
Those who participate in sports during the weekend with family or friends can find the best warmup exercises online. A personal trainer at the gym is an excellent resource as well. The doctor can also recommend which exercises will be beneficial.
Know Limitations
Being realistic about skills and abilities is important for casual players. Joining in on a touch football game is not wise if unfamiliar with the degree of contact involved. Someone who runs five miles around the neighborhood twice a week should not decide to run a marathon on a dare.
Pushing current levels of ability to improve strength and endurance is best done in small increments. Running a few more miles each week, for example, can help prepare for a marathon taking place in several months. After learning the basic skills needed, it is better to golf nine holes before taking on an entire course.
Supports
There are a variety of knee braces and supports available in department and sporting good stores that are inexpensive. Most are offered in different sizes to provide the proper level of support and comfort. Look for measurements on the package instead of guessing what size will work for you.
Experienced manufacturers of braces and supports will create products using advanced technology. Products, such as Mueller braces and supports, are made to be effective at avoiding injuries. They are also built to last with the right care and washing.
Follow Instructions
Packaging will also have information regarding washing of the support or brace. Many items can be placed in the washing machine but cannot go in the dryer. Compression socks and sleeves are a perfect example.
Products are inexpensive but replacement costs can add up quickly if instructions are ignored. Hinged braces will need to be hand washed and dried flat so they will remain flexible and fit the same wash after wash. Many products can last for years with occasional use and proper care.