Oklahoma City – Back to school means back to the hustle and bustle of countless extracurricular activities. With kids participating in athletics, proper return to sport will ensure that injuries do not put the breaks on the fun and enjoyment these activities bring.

James L. Bond, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist on staff at Bone and Joint Hospital at St. Anthony, recommends athletes begin individual training before the athletic season begins rather than rushing into participation after a long summer break.

“Peak performance is gained over months and years, not days and weeks,” Dr. Bond said.

The most common surgical injuries Dr. Bond sees during the fall athletic season are ACL tears and dislocated shoulders. If an injury does occur, he suggests the athlete ice, elevate and splint the extremity.

Impaired range of motion, visible swelling and misalignment are all signs that an injured athlete should seek the attention of a doctor and, if necessary, request a referral to an orthopedic specialist.

“The most important things for young athletes to remember are to return to their sport gradually, keep proper perspective on supplementation and enjoy the season,” Dr. Bond said.

For help finding a physician to treat your athletic injuries, call the Bone and Joint Hospital physician referral line at 405.272.7900 or visit www.boneandjoint.com.

###