Fairfield-Echo.com

(HealthDayNews) -- With the basketball season underway, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons offers these injury prevention tips:

• Warm up with jumping jacks, stationary cycling or running for five minutes. Then slowly and gently stretch, holding each stretch for 30 seconds.
• Select basketball shoes that fit snugly, offer support and are non-skid.
• Wear knee and elbow pads.
• Use a mouth guard to protect your teeth.
• If you wear glasses, use safety glasses.
• Don't wear jewelry or chew gum when playing.
• Avoid playing on courts where baskets and boundary lines are too close to walls, bleachers, water fountains or other structures.