Spring Into Motion with Confidence
As days in Atoka and the rest of the MidSouth get longer and the weather finally starts to warm up, many of us are eager to head back outside and enjoy our favorite sports. Whether you’re swinging a golf club, gearing up for baseball or softball, or just swimming laps in your pool, summer is the perfect time to get active.
Yet, with increased activity comes the risk of injury, especially if you have had a more sedentary winter. At McMahon Physical Therapy, we are here to help you stay in motion safely and confidently with expert guidance on things like injury prevention and individualized care.
Outdoor Sports Are Back: Is Your Body Ready?
Spring brings a surge in participation in recreational sports like:
- Golf: Combines physical activity and strategic thinking.
- Tennis and Pickleball: Fast-paced lateral movement and preemptive arm motions.
- Soccer and Rugby: Intense physical contact, sprinting, pivoting, and full-body coordination.
- Baseball and Softball: Throwing, batting, and sudden bursts of speed.
- Swimming: Requires full-body strength.
These activities are great for cardiovascular strength, health, and social connection. Unfortunately, each also places a significant demand on your muscles, tendons, and joints. That is why injury prevention should be your first priority.
Top Injury Prevention Tips
Warm-Up Properly
Dynamic stretches, light jogging, or sport-specific drills help activate key muscle groups and reduce the risk of sprains and strains.
Don’t Skip Strength Training
Target your core, stabilizing muscles, and glutes to support more explosive movement and balance, especially in sports like soccer or pickleball.
Progress Gradually
Ease into activity after winter downtime. Avoid jumping into competitive games without proper conditioning.
Stay Hydrated and Rested
Muscle fatigue increases injury risk. Proper hydration and rest help with recovery and performance.
Listen to Your Body
Persistent soreness or discomfort could be a sign of strain or overuse. Don’t push through the pain, or it can lead to more serious injuries.
What If I Get Injured?
Despite taking precautions, injuries such as tennis elbow, ankle sprains, ACL tears, or rotator cuff strains may still happen. Early assessment and treatment are crucial for a quick and complete recovery. At McMahon Physical Therapy, we offer:
- Thorough assessments for injuries
- Individualized physical therapy sessions
- Tailored recovery plans
- Sports readiness evaluations
- Direct manual therapy with advanced equipment
Whether you’re recovering from a minor strain or a significant injury, our expert team is ready to support your rehabilitation and help you return to your passions stronger, wiser, and free of pain.