Common sense can prevent mishaps.

• Position: Sports Injuries

Baby boomers may be at risk for sports injuries, but those mishaps can be prevented with some common sense precautions, suggests the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Rosemont, Ill. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that segment of the adult population sustained well over 1,000,000 sports-related injuries.

"Many baby boomers have a weak link, a previous injury, that may make certain activities more risky than others," explains James Herndon, president of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. "For example, people with knee problems may find that running without further aggravating their knees is impossible and may need to switch to walking. Many also try to cram all of their physical activity into the weekend, and often sustain overuse injuries as a result."

To prevent injuries, the following precautions should be taken:

* Always warm up and stretch before physical activity. Research studies confirm that cold muscles are more prone to injury. Jumping jacks, stationary cycling, running, or walking in place for three to five minutes are good starters. Then, slowly and gently stretch, holding each stretch for 30 seconds.

* Don't succumb to the "weekend warrior" syndrome. Compressing all of your physical activity into two days sets you up for trouble and doesn't increase your fitness level. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day.

* Take lessons and invest in good equipment. Proper form and instruction reduce the chance of developing "overuse" injuries like tendinitis or stress fractures.

* Select the proper shoes for your sport and use them only for that purpose. When the treads start to look worn, or the shoes are no longer as...