With kids going back to school, it’s not surprising that there are a variety of articles coming out which focus on improving safety in youth athletes. If your children are going to be playing sports this fall, or really any time of the year, then there are certain things you must understand as a parent. A new report explains what those things are.
The author of the article points out that there are generally three types of injuries that child athletes are going to be susceptible to. The first is strains, which, although not as serious due to the fact that they affect tendons and muscles, still need to be taken care of. The old standby of RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) is acceptable for many of these types of injuries.
Other damage must be seen to right away by at the very least a physical trainer and more often than not a doctor. A sprain involves damage to a ligament that can contribute to longterm physical pain if it’s not taken care of at once. And of course, concussions and attendant damage to the brain require particular attention in order to prevent longterm issues. Children suspected of suffering a concussion-inducing hit have to be taken out of the game at once and seen to by a medical official before they’re able to play again.
Thankfully, there are ways that the risk of an injury in any sport can be reduced. It starts with wearing the right type of equipment when taking part in the activity. With football, that’s going to mean wearing a helmet along with pads along the child’s body. Even sports like volleyball are going to require knee pads while cross country will necessitate the proper running shoes.
Parents shouldn’t think twice about speaking with coaches about the gear that’s right for their kids. If the school hands out this gear, you need to make sure it’s sufficient to ensuring safety. If it’s up to you to purchase items, get advice from a coach or a physical trainer about the right equipment. It’s also imperative that your child try on the items prior to purchase or play. If a helmet doesn’t fit a child’s head or shoes leave their feet open to slippage and twists, the items can’t protect kids the way they’re supposed to.
Kids also have to be taught about the importance of warming up. Stretching should be geared to the activity the child will take part in and designed to make sure their muscles are ready for what lies ahead. 10 to 15 minutes of stretching along with a light jog can get your child’s body in the proper shape to avoid injury.
Finally, when the season’s over, give your child time to rest. A month with which to not engage in intense sporting exercises is perfectly acceptable.
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