Having children participate in sports is an important part of a healthy and active lifestyle. Unfortunately, sports injuries can, and do, occur.
Having children participate in sports is an important part of a healthy and active lifestyle. Unfortunately, sports injuries can, and do, occur.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than half of the seven million sports and recreation-related injuries that occur each year are sustained by youth between ages five and 24. About 1.24 million kids receive emergency room care for sports-related injuries each year in the U.S. – that’s 3,400 kids each day – and about 90% of student-athletes say they’ve been injured while playing a sport. Many of those injuries can be quite serious, interfering not just with the child’s ability to play sports, but also with their future development and well-being.
However common, there are still several ways to keep children active while also reducing their risk of a sports-related injury.
Gear up – Whether during practice or games, athletes should be using protective gear, such as helmets, wrist guards and knee and elbow pads in addition to any other sports gear appropriate to their activity or player position.
Use the right stuff – Be sure that sports protective equipment is maintained correctly and is in good condition. Poorly fitted equipment may be uncomfortable and may not offer proper protection.
Practice makes perfect – Have athletes learn and practice skill sets relevant to their chosen activity. For example, appropriate tackling technique is important in preventing injuries in football and soccer.
Correct biomechanics, or movement and alignment, also play a role in preventing injuries during baseball, softball, and many other activities.
Be well-conditioned – Be sure to safely and slowly increase activities to improve physical fitness; being in good condition can protect players from injury.
Hydration and nutrition – Remind athletes to take care of their bodies by making sure they are properly hydrated and eating a well-balanced meal.
Be a good model – Communicate positive messages about safety and serve as role models for safe behavior, including a wearing helmet and following the rules.
It’s National Youth Sports Safety Month: Keep Your Kids Injury-Free With These 10 Tips – RAI Health & Awareness Blog (4rai.com)
How to Reduce the Risk of Injuries in Young Athletes | Aspirus Media Center | Aspirus Health Care