Top tips to avoid injury this winter sports season

The winter sports season is fast approaching and with this we usually see an increase in injuries including sprains, strains and sometimes fractures.

Whilst many injuries are unavoidable, it’s important to understand injury prevention and what to do if you do get injured.

What are the most common winter sports injuries?

Pre-season prepares athletes for the season ahead, and yet the often sudden increase in training can lead to unwanted niggles and injuries. The most common injuries that the physios at Our Medical see are strains, torn muscles, ligament injuries, Achilles tendonitis, knee injuries, shin splints, stress fractures and sometimes concussion.

What can I do to prevent injury?

The increase in activity during pre-season can often lead to injury. It’s important to increase training gradually. Rest days are also imperative to prevent injury as it gives the muscles chance to repair.

If you start to feel tight, sore or suspect a strain, book in to see a physio at Our Medical before it impacts the season ahead.

How do I manage a muscle strain?

Muscle aches are not always a sign of injury. When returning to training, athletes may experience stiff, achy, or tight muscles. Signs to look for that may need medical attention include deep, sharp or stabbing pains. Swelling and redness is often an indication that something is wrong.

If you suspect that something is wrong, rest, and make sure to book an appointment to see a physio for advice. If you suspect a fracture or broken bone, several Our Medical locations offer bulk billed radiology. Find your nearest location.

I suspect a broken bone, what can I do?

A broken bone will often result in severe pain in addition to potential swelling, tenderness, or bruising.

It’s important to be seen by a GP as soon as possible who will be able to advise next steps. Bulk billing GPs are available at all Our Medical locations. There is no need for an appointment and we are open every day to 10pm.

I’ve hurt myself on the weekend, can someone see me?

All Our Medical locations are open to 10pm every day for walk-in appointments. Physios and radiology opening times vary by centre.

Find your nearest centre.

Can you help with dental injuries?

Common dental injuries from winter sports include broken and loosened teeth, and sometimes teeth can be knocked out altogether.

Several Our Medical locations have dental clinics that offer exceptional dental for all. Our Medical Dental offers emergency dental, and most locations are open 6 or 7 days.

In addition to emergency dental, speak to our dentists about a properly fitted sports mouthguard. Find your nearest Our Medical Dental location.

Remember to start the season gradually, cross train where possible, allocate rest days and monitor fatigue, understand how your body is feeling, and monitor previous injuries so you can target them with the appropriate rehab.