Youth Sports Injuries
Youth safety when playing sports should be of utmost importance for the athletes, parents and coaches. Young athletes should not play or practice through the pain of a sports-related injury. Continuing to stress the injury can cause even more damage and may even end an athletic career.
Teach Your Child To Report an Injury
Teens and children should be coached on the limits of their bodies. Teach them to speak up when they feel pain and that it’s okay to sit on the bench until fully healed.
Be alert to signs of pain or injury including an unusual gait; limping; favoring a foot. Stop the activity and visit your foot doctor for professional help.
Preventing Youth Sports Injuries
- Make sure that coaches are trained in their sports as well as CPR and first aid.
- Equip your child with the right equipment and footgear for each sport.
- Encourage adequate hydration before, during and after workouts.
- Coach your child on the importance of stretching, warming up and cooling down.
