Dr. Richards shared some great advice for avoiding sports injuries, and tips for how to deal with an injury if you get one. Starting an exercise program or increasing your training regimen can mean strains and sprains for amateur athletes.

Sports injuries like strains and sprains can keep any weekend warrior sidelined. In fact, a recent study by the National Pain Foundation found that acute or recurrent pain disrupts everyday activities for 65 percent of survey respondents.

It's important to start slowly, have a program in place as you increase your exercise regimen so you can work out safely and injury-free

Warm up and cool down before exercising so that your body is prepared for an increased activity level and then ready to return to its normal state

Listen to your body. If you experience pain, see a healthcare professional. He/she can properly diagnose your condition and prescribe treatment options - such as Flector Patch, physical therapy, an icing regimen and more - to help relieve pain.

Sports Medicine Specialists - keepingactivepeopleactive.com 801-298-2495; offices in Bountiful and Layton