It is a parent’s joy to see their child shine in their favorite sport. However, these activities pose the risk of sustaining sports-related injuries such as torn ligaments in the knee including the ACL or MCL or tearing the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in the elbow.
Is there anything you can do to prevent sports-related injuries and help your child thrive in sports? Actually, there is. By getting proper sporting equipment and following the safety tips below, you can protect and support your child during their participation in various sports.
Start with Buying Proper Sporting Equipment
As much as the coach keeps training and reminding youth players how to handle the equipment to avoid injury, accidents happen. Therefore, it is vital to take precautions by acquiring proper sporting equipment for your athlete.
Don’t just go out and buy any old equipment; ensure it is top-quality. Also, check the size and have your child try on the gear to ensure comfort and the proper fit.
Safety Tips for Exercising Before Participating in Youth Sports
Exercise is a large part of every sport. And with exercise comes the dangers of injuries. Young players should listen to their coaches as well as observe safety precautions for a successful and safe exercise or practice.
Let’s take a look at some important safety tips to observe:
- Stretching before Practices and Games – Stretching helps prepare and loosen muscles before getting on the field, rink, court, ring or track. As a result, it safeguards players from injuries. A young player can engage in both static, such as toe touches, and dynamic stretching like doing jumping jacks.
- Observing Proper Form – How does your child stand and swing when throwing or catching a ball, javelin or discus? What posture do they adopt when hitting a ball or running? Different games require a player to observe certain forms.
If a youth player does not observe these set forms, they are more prone to sustaining injuries. Consequently, it is crucial to emphasize proper form before they participate in sports.
- Preseason Physical – Getting a preseason physical will help you determine whether your child is fit to play. It will also help in examining any area of concern to avoid further injuries when participating in sports.
Visit Our Clinic for Sports-related Injury Treatments
Did your youth athlete sustain an injury while playing a particular sport? Missouri Orthopedics & Advanced Sports Medicine is here to help ease your child’s pain and restore them to good health. Don’t let joint pain or an injury stop your kids from enjoying sports and life to the fullest! Contact us or visit our office in Saint Louis, Fenton or Creve Coeur today!