By Dr. Reese Bulmash
As a new school year begins, so does another exciting year of sports! From Friday night football to cross-country meets and volleyball tournaments, local student athletes are lacing up and hitting the field, court, or track. But along with the thrill of competition comes the risk of injury — and as a sports medicine physician, I see the same patterns each fall.
Here are some of the most common injuries I treat in student athletes and what parents, coaches, and players can do to help prevent them.
1. Sprains and strains
These are by far the most frequent sports injuries.
- Sprains involve ligaments — the tissue that connects bone to bone — being stretched or torn.
- Strains affect muscles or tendons.
Prevention tip: Emphasize proper warm-ups, stretching, and sport-specific conditioning. And don’t skip cool-downs — they’re just as important for muscle recovery.
2. Overuse injuries
These happen when an athlete performs the same motion repeatedly, such as pitching in baseball, serving in volleyball, or running long distances. Examples include shin splints, tendonitis, and stress fractures.
Prevention tip: Encourage rest days and cross-training. A break from repetitive motion can make athletes stronger and reduce their risk of burnout.
3. Concussions
Head injuries can happen in any sport, not just football. A concussion is a brain injury that requires rest, evaluation, and a gradual return to play under medical supervision.
Prevention tip: Make sure helmets fit properly, teach safe techniques, and remind athletes to speak up if they experience symptoms like headache, dizziness, or confusion. Playing through a concussion is never worth the risk.
4. Knee injuries
ACL tears, meniscus injuries, and patellar tendon issues are common in sports that involve jumping, cutting, and sudden changes of direction — think soccer, basketball, and cheerleading.
Prevention tip: Strengthening the muscles around the knee, especially the quadriceps and hamstrings, is key. Neuromuscular training can also improve balance and landing mechanics.
5. Heat-related illness
In Mississippi, late summer sports mean high temperatures and humidity. Dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke can occur.
Prevention tip: Hydrate before, during, and after practice. Take breaks in the shade, wear light clothing, and watch for early warning signs like dizziness or nausea.
The bottom line
Sports teach discipline, teamwork, and resilience — lessons that last far beyond a season. By recognizing injury risks early and encouraging smart training habits, we can help our young athletes stay healthy, strong, and ready to enjoy the game.
Here’s to a safe and successful school year, both in the classroom and on the playing field!
Dr. Reese Bulmash is a primary care sports medicine physician at Capital Ortho in Flowood and Clinton, where he treats athletes of all ages for sports injuries, orthopedic concerns, and performance optimization. He lives in Jackson with his family and is passionate about keeping our local athletes healthy and active.