One of the oldest sports at the Summer Games is complete and the competitors proved that Rowing is definitely not for the weak as they to vied for victory.  In today’s blog, Dr. Mark Albritton, an orthopaedic surgeon at Resurgens Orthopaedics, shares some sports tips to help prevent injury while rowing, whether in the gym or on the open water.

Most rowing injuries are caused by overuse of the wrist, forearm, knee and Lumbar spine. Injury prevention tips include:

• To prevent extensor tenosynovitis of the wrist keep the hand and wrist as warm as possible while rowing and ensure that proper stretching takes place prior to and following each rowing session.
• Flexibility exercises and a core stabilization program should be started and continued as long as the athlete is rowing in order to prevent Lumbar spine injuries.
• Training sessions that focus on quadricep strengthening, as well as incorporate stretching of the anterior hip, quadriceps, and iliotibial band serve as a strong foundation to prevent injuries involving the knee.
• Make sure to seek medical assistance should you experience any type of pain and remember not to play through the pain.

For more sports tips, check out our daily updates during the Summer Games.  Follow us live on Facebook and Twitter!!