7 Secrets to Spring Sport Safety and Preparation

Winter is on its way out – and so are our kids. As the weather improves the number of children playing – and getting injured – in a spring sport increases. In fact, over 10% of athletes under the age of 15 will be treated for a sports injury this season alone.

The most common sports-related injuries in children tend to be relatively minor – ankle sprains, heat illness, and overuse injuries. But, even the smallest injury can be prevented with some extra precautions. Our sports performance specialists recommend parents do the following:

1. Schedule a Physical – Before signing your child up for a sport, arrange for a general physical exam with your primary care physician.
2. Buy Good Gear – An athlete should always wear appropriate protective gear for their activity – in practices and competitions. When purchasing athletic gear make sure it is the right size and properly adjusted – if you have concerned a coach or trainer can help guide you.
3. Encourage Stretching – If a coach recommends certain warmups there is a reason; they will help boost performance and prevent injury. Encourage your athletes to warm-up and cool-down adequately.
4. Enforce Safety – Responsible adults who know and enforce the safety rules of the sport can provide vital supervision to athletes. If possible, brush up on your first aid and CPR so that you can act as a resource in a bad situation.
5. Be Cautious – Never encourage a child to “play through” an injury. If a player is complaining about an injury, get help from a coach or trainer and be sure to mention everything that hurts or aches. All coaches should have a plan for dealing with emergencies. Concussions are on the rise. If you see a player exhibiting the signs of a concussion encourage them to sit out and seek treatment for them.
6. Follow the Rules – In most sports, rules exist for numerous reasons, one of which is safety.
7. Encourage Hydration – Kids get overheated and dehydrated more quickly than adults. By encouraging active kids to stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise in the hot weather you can help them stay healthy.

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