The Summer Olympics bring together some of the world’s finest athletes in London this year from July 27- August 12. Olympians show the watching world their talent, determination and greatness in a variety of summer sports.

Athletes have prepared for these contests for years, but training is particularly intense in the months leading up to the games.

During the last Summer Olympics in Beijing in 2008, 1055 injuries were reported to the International Olympic Committee during training and competition. That is about 10 percent of the participating athletes. 

As you participate in your own summer sports activities, it is a good reminder that even the toughest and most skilled of athletes are vulnerable to injury.

Here at Panorama Orthopedics & Spine Center, we believe that good health care delivery starts with preventive practices and wellness education.

On our web site and through our partners, you can find information about preventing sports injuries such as ACL tears, concussions, gymnastics injuries, basketball injuries, football injuries, hockey injuries, swimming injuries, tennis injuries, volleyball injuries, and any number of other injuries.

According to a reporton the 2008 Olympic Games, the most common injuries were sprained ankles and thigh strains. While injuries can occur in any sport, athletes were at the most risk in soccer, taekwondo, hockey, handball, weightlifting and boxing.

Almost half of the injuries in the 2008 Summer Olympics were severe enough to prevent the athlete from training or competing.

It’s easy to think that injury can’t happen to you. However, last year alone Panorama surgeons performed more than 4,350 orthopedic procedures.

As you complete your own feats of strength this summer, we urge you to take the necessary precautions so that you can stay healthy and continue to do the things that you love.

GO USA!