May is Safe Sports and Recreation Month.
Trauma NB, along with our other Network for Safe Sport and Recreation in NB partners, would like to encourage you to safely enjoy your favorite sport or recreational activities this spring. This can be done by taking simple steps to recognize the risks of an activity and choosing to manage that risk the right way to prevent injuries.
The good news is that friends, coaches, trainers, and healthcare professionals such as doctors and physiotherapists are there to help.
Remember that you are not alone.
We all have a role to play when it comes to safety.
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We all know that training and practice help you learn how to do an activity and get better at it. Keep in mind that it also helps lower your risk of injury so you can continue to do the activities you love throughout the year. This is especially important for those who choose higher risk sports or recreational activities such as football or rock climbing.
While not all risks can be eliminated when practicing any sport or recreational activity, most can be managed. It’s OK to ask for help. Fortunately, there are many individuals and organizations who can provide you with their assistance. Don’t wait to find support if you or someone you know needs it.
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While it’s recommended that you perform a variety of types and intensities of physical activity for general health benefits, it’s just as important to know the different risks associated with your chosen sport or recreational activity so that you can make a plan to manage them.
This is one of the best ways for you to prevent a potentially serious injury which may impact your ability to remain active as you age.
It’s important to be in full control of your mind and body when engaged in any physical activity. This includes taking steps to prevent injury by avoiding distractions due to intoxication, tiredness, or a divided attention. Keep this in mind especially for high-risk sports or recreational activities.
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Remember to wear the correct, properly fitted protective equipment when needed to lower your risk of injury.
Safety buckles aren’t just for using in cars. Make sure that you and your loved ones fasten every safety buckle that is on the protective equipment you are using… every time.
Concussion Recognition and Management
A concussion is a common form of traumatic brain injury that can happen when participating in any sports or recreational activities.
Everyone experiences concussion differently and recovery times can vary. While it’s important to remember that a formal diagnosis of concussion can only be made following a medical assessment by a physician or nurse practitioner, anyone should be able to identify the signs and symptoms of a concussion both on and off the playing field.
