As the summer season unfolds and school sports take a hiatus, South Central Regional Medical Center (SCRMC) urges parents, coaches, and student athletes to prioritize safety and proper training. With the increase in sports-related injuries among students returning to athletics after a summer break, SCRMC’s South Central Orthopedics is committed to promoting awareness and preventative measures.

The off-season is a critical period for student athletes to maintain their fitness levels and engage in appropriate conditioning. A study published by the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that approximately 50% of high school sports injuries occur in the first month of the season, often due to inadequate training during the summer.

“We see a significant number of sports injuries every year as students return to their athletic routines,” said Daniel McCallum, Sr., MD, a recent addition to the medical team at South Central Orthopedics. “It’s crucial for student athletes to stay active and follow a structured conditioning program during the off-season to prevent injuries. Proper training, rest, and nutrition are key components of maintaining athletic health.”

McCallum, who brings experience in sports medicine and orthopedics, emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach to training. “Overtraining can be just as harmful as undertraining. Athletes should focus on a mix of strength, flexibility, and endurance exercises, and allow their bodies adequate recovery time. Parents and coaches play a pivotal role in guiding young athletes through these practices.”

South Central Orthopedics offers comprehensive services to help prevent and treat sports injuries, including personalized training programs, physical therapy, and advanced surgical options if needed. The team works closely with local schools and sports organizations to provide educational resources and support.

SCRMC encourages all student athletes to consult with their coaches and healthcare providers to develop a summer training regimen that includes:

• Regular Exercise: Maintain a consistent schedule of cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility workouts.
• Proper Nutrition: Consume a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins to support athletic performance.
• Adequate Hydration: Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities in the summer heat.
• Rest and Recovery: Ensure sufficient rest periods to allow muscles to recover and prevent overuse injuries.
• Safety Gear: Use appropriate protective equipment for all sports activities.

For more information on preventing sports injuries and the services offered by South Central Orthopedics, please visit https://scrmc.com/specialty/orthopedics/ or contact us at (601) 649-5990.