Sports injuries can affect anyone who is physically active — from professional athletes to people who exercise for fitness. The good news is that many injuries can be prevented with the right preparation, and modern treatment can get you back to sport safely and quickly.

Warm up properly before activity, include strength and balance training in your routine, use the right footwear, and listen to your body. Pain that persists or worsens should never be ignored — early diagnosis of conditions such as ligament tears, meniscal injuries and tendonitis leads to simpler, faster treatment.

If you do get injured, the R.I.C.E. principle (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) helps in the first 48 hours, followed by an accurate diagnosis. Treatment may range from physiotherapy and injection therapy to keyhole (arthroscopic) surgery — planned around your sport and your goals, so you can return stronger than before.