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Health 52
Info Tip:
Spring Sports
Softball, soccer, tennis--spring’s longer days and warmer weather bring the
return of outdoor sports.
Along with the fun, every year across the country about three and a half
million children under the age of 14 are treated for sports injuries.
Solo sports like bicycling and skateboarding account for about half of these
accidents, but according to Safe Kids USA, more than one in ten children
playing baseball, soccer and football sustain some type of injury as well.
The nonprofit group says that most accidents occur during practice, not
games, which is why wearing protective gear and warming up should be routine
at all practice sessions.
To play it safe, precautions include wearing sport-specific shoes and
properly fitting equipment including helmets and eye protection, depending
on the sport.
Seasonal sports like soccer and football are now being played year-round,
which can lead to overuse of specific muscles and joints, causing strains
and repetitive-motion injury in younger athletes. If not allowed to heal
properly, a minor injury can cause lifelong problems.
Many well-intentioned coaches lack the knowledge to make medical decisions.
It’s a parent’s responsibility to keep a child off the field when the child
is in pain.
No matter what the age, outdoor sports are a great way to stay in shape and
build social relationships. Keeping it safe and keeping it fun helps your
whole family enjoy sports for a lifetime.
Sources: Safe Kids, Reuters Health, National Athletic Trainers
Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Orthopedic
Surgeons
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