Spring Sports Are Back — Here’s How to Avoid Common Injuries

YES!!! It’s finally getting warmer, and that means we can get back outside and get moving again. Baseball, track, volleyball, pickleball, hiking and more — we are ready for it. But after a long winter of being less active, it’s important to be mindful of spring and summer sports injuries. Jumping back in too quickly can take a toll on our bodies, so listening to what they’re telling us is key. To learn more about common injuries and when to seek help, I reached out to Dr. Michael Palmer, an orthopedic surgeon at The Christ Hospital Health Network.

The Most Common Spring and Summer Sports Injuries

When it comes to warm-weather sports, certain injuries show up again and again. According to Dr. Palmer, “Sprains and strains, overuse injuries are the most common.” Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a student athlete, repetitive movement and sudden increases in activity can lead to pain that shouldn’t be ignored.

Soreness vs. Injury: How to Tell the Difference

So, how can you tell if you’re just sore or actually injured?

Dr. Palmer explains it simply: “Sore gets better pretty quickly, within a few days. Injuries or more serious damage tends to persist.”

If the pain improves with rest and time, it’s likely soreness. If it sticks around or worsens, it may be time to get it checked out.

When “Walk It Off” Isn’t the Right Advice

Growing up, I remember cramping up all the time while playing ball. My parents would tell me to “walk it off,” and now I find myself saying the same thing to my own daughter.

Sometimes that advice works — but sometimes it doesn’t.

Dr. Palmer shared several red flags that mean it’s time to stop pushing through and seek medical attention:

Hearing or feeling a sudden “pop” or “rip”
Inability to bear weight
Instability or buckling
Inability to perform required tasks during a game, such as throwing a baseball or cutting and pivoting in soccer

If any of these happen, it’s best not to ignore them.

Why Early Treatment Matters

If you do end up with a ligament or tendon tear, treatment can look very different depending on the injury and the individual.

“It depends on many factors,” Dr. Palmer said. “Treatment could range from rest to surgery for repair or reconstruction.”

Waiting too long can create bigger problems down the road. “Some injuries can lead to more problems if left untreated. For example, an ACL tear can lead to knee instability which, over time, can lead to cartilage and meniscus injuries,” he explained.

The bottom line: If something feels off, don’t wait it out.

If you’d like to contact Dr. Michael Palmer or learn more about orthopedic care at The Christ Hospital, you can find his information here.

Stay safe, listen to your body and enjoy getting back outside this spring and summer.

Jennifer Fritsch is part of the Jeff and Jenn Morning Show on Q102, which airs on weekdays from 5:30-10 a.m. She is also a co-host on Q102’s Hot List, weekdays at 10 a.m. When she isn't working, Fritsch enjoys traveling, visiting new places and of course, being a mom! She has a daughter named Penelope, and thoroughly enjoys trying new things together as a mother/daughter duo. As a paid partner of The Christ Hospital Health Network, Fritsch is eager to share all experiences through Healthspirations.

Spring Sports Are Back — Here’s How to Avoid Common Injuries By Q102's Jennifer Fritsch with The Christ Hospital Health Network's Michael Palmer, MD When the warm weather gets you outside and moving, be sure to pay attention to possible sports injuries relating to spring and summer sports. Here’s how to know when to walk it off and when to talk to an expert.