Sports Medicine
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More American kids are playing sports than ever before. This is great news—physical activity helps children stay fit and feel good about themselves.
But injuries can happen. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sports and recreation-related injuries are common. They send more than 2.6 million kids age 19 and younger to the Emergency Department each year.
Kids aren’t small adults. Their bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments are still growing. This means they’re more susceptible to injury. However, there are ways to ensure your young athlete plays it safe. Follow these tips to help prevent sports injuries:
Get cleared
Before playing organized sports, your child should have a physical exam. A physician, a nurse practitioner, or a qualified clinician can do this.
Get in gear
The right equipment can make all the difference. Make sure your child has the right protective gear for the sport and that the gear fits properly and is in good condition.
Watch the weather
Your child needs time to adjust to hot or humid environments before playing. This can help prevent heat-related injuries or illnesses.
Stretch it out
Have your child work on flexibility before and after games and practices to help release muscle tension and prevent injury.
Drink up
Ensure your child stays hydrated. Encourage your athlete to drink plenty of water before, during, and after activity.
Pay attention to pain
Teach your child to listen to their body and avoid playing through pain.
Plan on some rest
Kids should take breaks during practice. And they should have at least one day off a week from playing sports so their bodies can recover.
Be a role model
Communicate the importance of safety to your athlete. And teach by example—wear safety gear and follow the rules when you participate in sports.
Get moving
Kettering Health has an expert team of sports medicine providers. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a youth player, or a professional athlete, you’re at the heart of everything we do. Find a sports injury clinic near you.
