Sports injury? Three tips to get back in the game

When you love your sport, even the hardest workout isn’t as grueling as unplanned time off. Spend as little time in the injury zone as possible with these tips.

Three recovery essentials

1.    Listen to the pros. Your sports medicine specialist is the expert here. They’ll let you know what you need to do to return to play.

2.    Commit to PT. This includes doing your physical therapy exercises regularly at home. They’ll help you come back stronger with a lower risk of injury in the future.

3.    Seize the opportunity. If your sport is the center of your life, downtime may throw you off balance. Take this chance to develop other interests.



Ready, set, go?

Returning to play after a sports injury is a series of small steps.

Step 1. You can do basic movements without pain. Your doctor will let you know when you can resume daily activities, like walking.

Step 2. You can play for short periods without pain. Your doctor may have you do easy drills for a few minutes at a time and build up as you improve.

Step 3. You feel confident and ready. A sports injury can go deeper than the injury itself. Before returning to your previous level of play, talk with your doctor to make sure both your mind and your body are ready.

Learn how Boston Children’s Sports Medicine Division can help you return to play.