Spring is almost here. The days are getting longer and the weather is getting warmer. After a frosty winter, you’re probably ready for some outdoor fun. But you need to be careful because the increased activity can lead to increased risk. We have some tips for avoiding springtime injuries.

Common sports injuries

Not all sports injuries are preventable, but there are precautions you can take for the ones that are. These are the four most common sports injuries that can occur if you’re not careful, according to UnityPoint Health:

1. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is knee pain caused by damaged cartilage under the kneecap and can be caused by overuse. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is often associated with running or jumping sports.
2. Shoulder injuries include anything from dislocations to muscle and ligament strains and can be caused by overworking the arm.
3. Tennis elbow is an injury caused by repetitive motions while gripping; it is commonly seen in tennis or golf.
4. Hamstring strain is a pulled muscle in the back of your leg; the hamstring muscles can be tight and generally susceptible to straining. It can simply be caused by running.

Preventing sports injuries

If you want to do your best to stay injury-free, you should take precautions before you lace up your sneakers or cleats. Here are some good rules to live by:

• Visit your doctor to ensure old injuries have healed and to make sure you are ready for activity.
• Stretch, stretch, stretch! Many sports injuries can be prevented simply by properly stretching and warming up prior to the activity.
• Wear protective gear such as a helmet for cycling or shin guards for soccer.
• Stay hydrated because dehydration can lead to muscle fatigue and increased injury risk.

Injuries around the house

While spring is the season for sports, you don’t need to be a professional athlete to suffer a fall. Some simple household tasks can lead to injury as well!

• If you’re cleaning the gutters, make sure you use a safe and sturdy ladder and always let someone else know beforehand.
• If you’re working in the garden, use caution with the equipment to avoid lacerations.
• If you’re spring cleaning, lift with your legs and not your back.

Always remember to start slow and properly prepare for all of your spring activities, no matter how leisurely they may seem.

Dealing with dog bites

It’s not just people who will be enjoying the warm spring weather, our four-legged friends will be out taking walks as well.Unfortunately, dog bites are not an uncommon problem; approximately 750,000 people receive medical attention for dog bites every year. Whether you’re a victim or a dog owner, a bite can be a very traumatic experience.In Massachusetts, a dog owner is liable for damages as long as the injured person wasn’t trespassing or provoking the dog.

What to do if you’re injured

Accidents can still happen even if you take the proper precautions in all of these situations. If you’ve been injured as a result of another person’s negligence, you need to understand your legal options.KC Law can help to explain your rights and evaluate your personal injury claim. Just contact us for our expert guidance.