Fall Sports Are Back: How to Prevent and Treat Common Injuries

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Fall is an exciting time for athletes in Albuquerque and throughout New Mexico. From high school football and soccer to recreational leagues and community races, the return of sports means more time on the field, court, or trail.

But with increased activity comes a higher risk of sports-related injuries. At New Mexico Orthopaedics (NMO), we’re here to help athletes of all ages stay safe, recover quickly, and get back to doing what they love.

Common Fall Sports Injuries

Whether you’re sprinting down the soccer field, tackling in football, or training for the Duke City Marathon, some injuries are more common this time of year.

  • Ankle Sprains & Strains – sudden twists or uneven ground can stretch or tear ligaments.

  • Knee Injuries – including ACL tears, runner’s knee, and meniscus damage.

  • Shoulder Injuries – overuse or hard impacts can lead to dislocations or rotator cuff issues.

  • Stress Fractures – often caused by repetitive impact activities like running.

  • Concussions – especially common in contact sports like football and soccer.

If you notice persistent pain, swelling, or limited movement, don’t push through it. Early treatment can prevent long-term complications.

Tips to Prevent Sports Injuries

The best way to treat an injury is to avoid it in the first place. Here are some expert tips from our NMO sports medicine team:

  • Warm Up and Cool Down: Dynamic stretches before and static stretches after activity help keep muscles flexible.

  • Wear Proper Gear: Shoes with good support and protective equipment reduce risk.

  • Cross-Train: Mix in strength training and low-impact workouts to build overall stability.

  • Listen to Your Body: Rest when you feel pain or fatigue—ignoring early warning signs can make injuries worse.

  • Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration supports muscle function and recovery.

When to Seek Care

Sometimes, rest and home care aren’t enough. You should see a sports medicine specialist if you experience:

  • Sharp or worsening pain

  • Swelling that doesn’t improve with ice and rest

  • Trouble bearing weight on a joint

  • Limited range of motion

  • Persistent numbness or tingling

 

The Training Room: Walk-In Care for Sports Injuries

NMO makes it easy for athletes to get immediate, expert care.
Visit The Training Room, our Saturday walk-in sports injury clinic, for fast treatment — no appointment needed.

Location: Winrock Clinic
Hours: Saturdays, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
For: Sprains, strains, fractures, and other sports-related injuries

Our team of orthopedic specialists will diagnose your injury, create a personalized treatment plan, and help you return to peak performance.