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Friday, August 1, 2008
Ask the Doc
Raleigh Durham, NC
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Dear Dr. Burt:
I am planning to try out for volleyball this fall as a freshman. I have never played at this level before, and I am worried about being able to keep up with the physical demands of the sport. How can I play my best without worrying about getting hurt?
According to USA Volleyball, the Volleyball Coaches Association, and the US Consumer Safety Commission’s 1999 NEISS data and estimates, there are more than 187,000 volleyball-related injuries each year.
Injuries often accompany sports, but by taking some basic precautions, and being prepared, even the toughest, most competitive athlete can avoid getting seriously hurt during exercise and play.
To guard against injuries, always take time to warm up and stretch, especially your legs and shoulders. Warm up with jumping jack, stationary cycling, or running or walking in place for three to five minutes. Then slowly and gently stretch, holding each stretch for 30 seconds.
Here are some simple and basic tips to help you stay in top form and injury free:
• Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
• If you are playing outdoors in the sun, be sure to wear sunscreen.
• Use knee pads to protect yourself from injury when you fall or dive onto the court.
• Defensive pants, which are padded from hip to knee, can protect your from floor burns and bruises
• Wear shoes that provide strong ankle and arch support and offer good shock absorption.
• Focus on your technique.
• Don’t grab onto the net or hang on to supports, which can cause the net to overturn and fall on you.
• “Call” the ball to reduce the chance of colliding with another player.
• Learn about first aid basics and learn how to take care of minor injuries, including minor bruises or muscle strains or sprains.
• Have a plan in place in case of emergencies such as concussions, dislocations, and more serious sprains and fractures.
Do you have a question to “ask the doc?” If so, email it to info@vype.com. Be sure to include your name and contact information in case we need to follow up with you.
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Football season opens for schools in the Triangle area August 22 for public schools and August 12 for private schools,...
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