Fall Sports and Your Child

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

04 Oct 2008 12:15 PM

Now that school is back in session the number of sports related injuries is on the rise. Pediatricians say they are seeing a ton of ankle injuries among young athletes now that football and soccer season has gotten underway. Most include sprains and broken bones, and in most cases, doctors say the injuries could have been prevented.

If your child is an avid athlete doctors recommend reviewing the following tips in an effort to avoid unwanted trips to the emergency room:

BE PROACTIVE

Shoes. Doctors recommend purchasing the proper shoe for the specific sport your child is participating in. Different sports require different types of shoes and athletes should be wearing the right footwear. For example, a child shouldn't be wearing baseball cleats in lieu of proper football shoes. In addition, children should start a new sport's season with new shoes. Old worn out shoes cause the ankle to tilt because the foot can't lie flat.

Warm-Up. Parents should encourage their children to stretch before hitting the field. Doctors note that calf stretches and light jogging before a practice or big game helps warm up ligaments and blood vessels, reducing the risk for ankle injuries.

Spot Check. It's a good idea to walk around a playing field before the start of a game. This is especially important if your child is playing a game in a public park or other location where conditions are not always well monitored. Look for dips, divots and holes. Doctors say running on uneven surfaces causes most sports-related ankle sprains. Alert coaches if you find any major problem spots.

Get a Physical. Children should undergo a routine medical check-up prior to beginning a sport. A doctor can evaluate old sprains or other prior injuries and tell you whether your child might be vulnerable to new sprains, and could possibly benefit from wearing a supportive brace during games.

Related Articles:

Kids and Fitness---One Sport or Many?

How to Get Your Kids in Shape

New Exercise Program for Kids

Is Your Child Getting Enough Exercise?

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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