Spare Your Joints from Injury This Summer There’s no faster way to end a game or workout than a sports injury. Whether you’re an athlete or an amateur, you can protect yourself by playing it smart. “Before you even start your sport, make sure that you have the right gear, including whatever safety equipment is needed,” says Derek Johnson, MD, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at the Wilcox Bone & Joint Center.
Dr. Tyler Chihara
Dr. Heather Hopkins
Dr. Derek Johnson
SIX REASONS TO VISIT OUR BIGGER, BETTER BONE & JOINT CENTER.
That means if you like to bike, wear a helmet and bright, reflective clothing. Helmets, wrist guards, and knee and elbow pads protect inline skaters, while well-fitting shoes in good condition are a must for runners, basketball players and hikers. “You should also understand how to perform the activity the right way,” Johnson adds. “Improper form can contribute to injuries, so learn the proper technique from an expert.” To avoid injury and stay in the game, take a timeout to review these simple safety tips: • Warm up. Dynamic stretches and exercises, such as jumping jacks or walking in place, can reduce your chances of injury. • Strengthen leg muscles. “Strong quadriceps in the front of your thighs and hamstring muscles along the back of the thighs are particularly key in protecting knees,” Johnson says. “Stair climbing, bike riding, and exercises with weights or elastic bands that work those muscles can help.
Dr. Daniel Judd
Dr. David Rovinsky
Dr. Alyssa Schaffer
You don’t have to leave Kaua‘i for quality bone and joint care. The team at our newly
expanded
Bone & Joint Center includes orthopedic surgeons
• Choose low-impact activities like swimming, walking, bicycling and water aerobics if you already have joint problems to prevent further injury.
specializing in sports
• Maintain a healthy weight. Every step you take places about three times your body weight on the knees, so even a small amount of weight loss can make a big difference
replacement and fracture care. We also have Kaua‘i’s
• Take it easy. Don’t try to cram a week’s worth of exercise into a weekend workout. Increase the amount you exercise slowly and gradually.
procedure room and much more.
pediatrics,
hand
and
medicine, foot and ankle, upper
extremity,
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only foot specialist and rehab physician. Our newly remodeled center now features a state-of-the-art
• Cool down. Loosen up muscles by slowing down your pace. “If you do get hurt, stop what you’re doing – otherwise, you could make your injury worse,” cautions Johnson, who specializes in minimally invasive surgery of the shoulder and knee. “Treat minor strains, bruises and sprains with RICE – rest, ice, compression, elevation,” Johnson advises. “Consider seeing your doctor if you have severe pain or swelling.” For more articles about health and wellness topics, visit LiveHealthyKauai.org. Page 10
Call 245-1523 or visit wilcoxhealth.org/boneandjoint.