Your Injury Isn’t the End, But It Does Change the Game.
BEFORE INJURY
- Train smart. Fuel your body well, rest properly, and follow a plan that balances strength, mobility, and recovery.
- Know the signs. Learn to recognize early pain, tightness, or fatigue signals, and report them early.
- Understand medication risks. Know that opioids are powerful and risky. There are safer ways to manage pain if you get injured. Many athletes find relief with ibuprofen, Tylenol, cold/heat therapy, or physical therapy.
DURING INJURY
- Get it checked. Always see a medical professional before returning to play. No toughing it out.
- Stay involved. Support your teammates, attend practice, and help where you can. You’re still a key part of the team.
- Watch your mindset. It’s normal to feel down or isolated. Don’t bottle it up; talk to someone you trust.
AFTER INJURY
- Ease back in. Don’t rush recovery. Follow the rehab plan. Speak up if something doesn’t feel right.
- Avoid leftover meds. If you were prescribed painkillers, don’t keep or share them. Get rid of unused pills safely.
- Prioritize mental recovery. Healing is more than physical. Your confidence and identity need time to recover, too.