Free Injury Screenings at Hill Family Center Y

Got an aching calf from running every day? Wrist hurt from all that tennis? Wonder if you need to see a doctor?

Maryland SportsCare & Rehab will be partnering with the local Hill Family Center Y in Westminster to provide free injury screenings to community members throughout the summer.

Every Wednesday at the Hill Family Center Y, 1719 Sykesville Road, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m certified athletic trainer Meghan Young will provide the screenings. The last screening is Wednesday, Aug. 1. This event is free and open to the public but space is limited.

Young is a certified athletic trainer at Maryland SportsCare & Rehab and the athletic trainer at Westminster High School. She answered a few questions about sports injuries. 

What is the purpose of the screenings?

I can help people weed out aches and pains from true orthopedic injuries that may require further consultation from an orthopedic doctor.

What does the screening involve? (how long will it take, what will happen)

During the screenings, I go through a quick evaluation including a brief history (how the injury occurred, when it occurred, if the injury is acute or chronic, exactly where the pain is located on their body), objective findings (is there any swelling, is there any range of motion problems, is there any joint laxity or pain).  From there I can determine how severe the injury is and if it needs to be referred out. 

What are some common injuries?

Most common injuries are running injuries usually from overuse--knee pain, tight IT band, tight hamstrings, tight hip flexors.  I recommend certain stretches and cryotherapy (ice).

4. Can you give 1-2 tips for preventing (teasers)?

Work on flexibility and listen to your body!