Pediatrician’s Perspective: Clever Parents Want to Know About Avoiding Sports-Related Injuries in Children

What are the most common sports related injuries in children? What can parents do to help their kids avoid injury?

The most common injuries are sprains, cuts, bruises, simple fractures, and overuse problems. Most are not particularly dangerous to the child or his/her sports future. Concussions and other head injuries, neck injuries, and injury due to overheating and dehydration, while less common, can be quite dangerous.

Preventing serious sports injuries requires a many-pronged approach. The good thing about organized sports is that they are organized! They have set rules, playing fields and protective equipment. And children who participate in them develop their skill and their muscular strength which makes them less likely to be injured. Strive for a healthy level of competition and have realistic goals for accomplishment. Make sure that the coach understands children and their strengths and limitations as well as he understands his sport. Many injuries occur when children are pushing themselves beyond their skill or comfort level. Be sure your child has proper and well maintained equipment and clothing, including appropriate shoes that fit well and are tied.

Dehydration and heat related injuries occur when children lose more fluid than they ingest. Frequent breaks to cool down and drink water will prevent problems.

Pre-participation physicals are required by most middle and high school teams, and they are a good idea of you have any concerns about the sports-worthiness of your younger child.

Parents can help prevent injuries by encouraging their child’s regular participation in physical activity, providing them with appropriate clothing and shoes and planning schedules to prevent a rushed or frantic afternoon. Be sure your child gets in shape intelligently but don’t let him over-train. If your child gets injured, get proper evaluation and rehabilitation, and give him time to heal before her resumes full participation. Most important of all, let your child set the pace and determine his/her strengths and interests. Don’t push them beyond their ability or comfort level.