SPRAINS, STRAINS, & TARDINESS – 7 Tips To A Safer Sporting Season
School has started and our young athletes are taking to the fields and courts and ramping up their sporting activities. Unfortunately, this is also the time of year we begin to see an increase in sprains, strains, groin pulls, shin splints, knee injuries, tennis elbow, and many other sport related injuries. (You’re probably wondering what in the world “Tardiness” has to do with those, but more on that in a minute… )
Understandably, many parents are concerned about their children getting hurt while playing sports. They are pushing and conditioning their bodies in preparation to compete, and in many instances, with other athletes almost twice their size. After all, keeping our children safe is usually #1 on a long list of parental responsibilities. We recommend doing a little research on the most common injuries pertaining to your child’s particular sport. Not to scare you of course, but to help you prepare appropriately. I’m sure you’ve heard the old American idiom; “An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure”!
To put this in practice, we’re providing you A FEW TIPS to keep your future Dwyane Wade’s, Maria Sharapova’s, Gareth Bale’s, & Tom Brady’s out there, all as safe as possible. That brings us back to explain why we included “Tardiness” in our headline… take a look at TIP #1.
- AVOID BEING TARDY – At first you may wonder how punctuality relates to keeping your little athlete safer. Well, it most certainly can. If you’ve stuck around to catch a little of your son or daughter’s practice session, you might notice the very first thing their coach will typically have them do: “Everybody get into your warm-up positions!” Stretching, running in place, jumping jacks, etc. You getting them there on time, ensures they get their body ready. This gets the blood flowing to their muscles, allows for greater flexibility, therefore reducing the chances of injury. So, set that alarm on your device and get your child there early!
- DO YOUR HOMEWORK - on the appropriate equipment for your child’s sport. It’s important that you know exactly what safety equipment is recommended. In addition, ensuring that equipment properly fits your child can prevent injury as well. Also, keep in mind that the cheapest equipment may not always be the best option. Read reviews to learn which brands have better safety ratings, etc. You might also explain to your child that while the equipment may make them look tough and cool, it still does not give them super powers. They should always learn the proper body mechanics and maneuvers to minimize their risk of injury.
- TAKE BREAKS – Most coaches provide ample water breaks during your child’s sporting events, but it wouldn’t hurt to remind your child the importance of keeping hydrated before, during, & after… especially in this Texas heat!
- KNOW THE RULES – Many of the rules of the game have been put in place to keep players safe. Knowing these rules and helping your child understand their meaning, and the importance of following them, will definitely help minimize their risk of getting hurt.
- IN PAIN? STOP & EXPLAIN – Explain to your child that if they have been hurt, and experiencing pain, or too fatigued, they need to report that to their coach right away and not just continue playing. Further injury could occur.
- CONDITIONING – More than likely your child’s coach is already hard at work conditioning your child during practice. However, encouraging your child to exercise outside of practice can help strengthen and condition their muscles. Make sure they don’t overdo it.It may be a good idea to research exercises appropriate for your child’s age and sport.
- DON’T STRESS – Some children may experience overwhelming pressure to be better and to win. Keep an eye on your child to ensure they are not pushing themselves too hard. Be aware of the pressures placed on them by their coaches, other parents, or even by you to ensure your child maintains a healthy competitive drive. They should never be criticized or punished for losing. They should be encouraged to improve their skill, be a good sportsman, work hard to do their best, and most of all have fun!
We hope you find these tips helpful! May your kiddos thrive in their favorite sport and stay safe this season!
