Keep Kids Injury-Free During Fall Sports

Fall sports such as soccer, football, and volleyball are in high gear. As young athletes hit the playing fields, parents and coaches can take steps to prevent player injuries.

Youth sports are a major source of physical activity, and sometimes, a source of youth orthopedic injuries. From football and soccer to cheerleading and volleyball, thousands of children and teens experience sports-related injuries each year.

One of the most common issues among young athletes is overuse injuries, which can develop when the body doesn’t have enough time to rest and recover. These injuries often start as minor aches or pains, but without proper attention, they can lead to more serious problems that may sideline kids for an entire season.

Orthopedic experts suggest coaches and parents teach these safety tips to young players to prevent injuries:

Don't ignore the pain.

All athletes, regardless of age, should be taught to pay attention to any aches and pains. An injury that goes unassessed or undiagnosed can get worse over time.

Don't skip the warm-up or cool-down.

Before and after practice, do low-impact exercises such as walking or stretching.

Add strength training and stretching.

To be safe and effective, hold the stretches for 10 to 12 seconds and don't push the body beyond he point of resistance.

Check your equipment.

Always wear the appropriate protective athletic gear, such as helmets, mouth guards, pads or fitted cleats. Be sure all gear fits properly.

Stay hydrated.

This is key to minimizing muscle cramps. If you feel thirsty, you've waited too long to drink fluids.

Consider the surface.

Avoid an unsafe surface that is not in good condition.

Be flexible.

If possible, rotate positions or try new sports during the off-season to help prevent overuse injuries.

Listen to your body.

Avoid overtraining. If you develop any pain or discomfort, reduce the duration and intensity of the workout to avoid injury or burnout.

While not all injuries can be prevented, some can be avoided — parents, coaches, and athletes can help prevent injuries by emphasizing proper technique, encouraging rest days, and seeking medical advice early when pain arises.

Barton Health provides orthopedic, sports medicine, and rehabilitation services and expertise in South Lake Tahoe, Stateline, and Carson City. Learn more about sports medicine services at Barton