Fall Sports Season: Staying Healthy and Injury-Free

As the fall sports season begins, student-athletes across our community are lacing up for football, volleyball, cross country, tennis, and more, even as the summer heat lingers. Each sport brings opportunities for teamwork, leadership, and personal growth — but also its own set of physical challenges. At Sagewell Orthopaedics, we’re passionate about keeping young athletes active and thriving, supporting them not only through clinical care but also through outreach and education all year long.

Proud Moments: Supporting Athletes at the Carriker Chronicles Football Camp

Our commitment to local athletes was on full display in July at the inaugural Carriker Chronicles Football Camp. Dr. Scott Strasburger and the Sagewell Orthopaedics team were honored to provide on-site support, answer questions, and promote a culture of safety and resilience for participants. Initiatives like these reflect our ongoing promise to be present for athletes—whether they’re learning new skills at camp or competing throughout the school year. Learn more about our involvement here.

Understanding Fall Sports & Their Most Common Injuries

The fall sports season is packed with high-impact and fast-paced activities.

While these sports can be incredibly rewarding, parents, coaches, and athletes need to be aware of injury risks—and even more importantly, how to prevent them.

Football: 

Frequent injuries include knee ligament sprains (especially ACL and MCL), shoulder injuries, and concussions.

Volleyball: 

Players often experience finger sprains, shoulder overuse injuries, and ankle sprains from jumping and quick transitions.

Cross Country & Track: 

Common issues are shin splints, runner’s knee (patellofemoral pain), heel pain (plantar fasciitis), and stress fractures due to repetitive impact.

Tennis: 

Athletes may encounter tennis elbow, wrist strains, and lower back pain from frequent twisting motions and repetitive swings.

Dr. Strasburger’s Insights: Reducing Risk & Promoting Recovery

With decades of experience in treating sports injuries, Dr. Scott Strasburger emphasizes that preparation and attention to early warning signs are keys to a healthy season. Here’s how you can help athletes stay safe:

Prioritize Pre-Season Conditioning

Proper strength and flexibility training before the season can help support joints, build muscle endurance, and lower the risk of both traumatic and overuse injuries. Focus on core stability, balance, and sport-specific drills.

Emphasize Safe Technique

Work with coaches and trainers to ensure athletes are using correct form—whether it’s tackling, landing after a jump, or serving. Good technique not only boosts performance but can also minimize stress on vulnerable joints.

Warm Up and Cool Down

Dynamic warm-ups (like high knees, arm swings, and light jogging) prepare muscles for activity, while static stretching and cool-down routines can help with muscle recovery and flexibility post-practice or game.

Watch for Early Warning Signs

Persistent aches, swelling, or reduced performance could signal an oncoming injury. Encourage athletes to speak up and seek evaluation instead of “pushing through the pain.” Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major setbacks.

Protect with Proper Gear

Ensure all equipment — from football helmets and mouthguards to tennis shoes and ankle braces — fits well, is in good condition, and is used every time an athlete hits the field or court.

Manage Workload

Many fall athletes play multiple sports or participate in club teams and school events simultaneously. Keep track of total practice and game hours, and build in rest days to prevent burnout and overuse injuries.

Comprehensive Orthopaedic Support for Area Athletes

At Sagewell Orthopaedics, our mission is to keep athletes in the game safely and confidently. Dr. Strasburger and our athletic training team provide personalized care plans for everything from sprains and overuse injuries to advanced surgical solutions when needed. We work closely with families, coaches, and trainers to support each athlete’s complete health and recovery journey.

Ready for Your Best Fall Season Yet

Championing athlete wellness takes a team, and our door is always open to partner with yours. If your student-athlete experiences an injury or persistent discomfort this fall, trust our team to deliver both expert evaluation and a tailored plan for getting back to what they love. Here’s to a successful, safe, and active fall sports season from Dr. Scott Strasburger and the entire Sagewell Orthopaedics team.