Tips to Prevent Sports Injuries in Young Players

Most parents wish to promote the habit of physical activity and sports in their children. Sporting activities can be beneficial for a child’s mental and physical growth and offer them a chance to explore their physical capabilities. As much fun as sports can be, there are always risks of accidents and injury. Here are a few tips coaches and parents can use to help prevent injuries in young athletes.

Effective Communication

Make sure kids feel comfortable coming to you with any health concerns, physical or mental. Some kids might reach out to a trainer or parent when in pain. However, many young athletes have the habit of pushing through despite being in pain. This can lead to serious injuries and prolonged complications in athletes of all ages. Keep a check on the athletes’ physical well-being and respond promptly to any complaints of pain or discomfort.

Schedule Time off

When training for a sport, young athletes should have a manageable schedule. Taking at least one day off a week is essential for the body to recover. They should not train for more than eleven months a year, and breaks should be scheduled as per each athlete’s need.

Use of Sporting Gear

Whether a professional or a beginner, every athlete requires necessary sporting gear for protection and efficiency. This protective gear does not guarantee to eliminate injury risks but reduces the severity of the injury significantly. Following sporting gear should be habitually worn by athletes relating to the sport they engage in:

1. a) Neck pad
   b) Shoulder pad
   c) Elbow pad /cup
   d) Chest pad
   e) Knee pad /cup
   f) Shin pad
   g) Helmet
   h) Mouthguard
   i) Protective eyewear
   j) Faceguard

Regular Physical Examinations

At the beginning of a sporting season, make sure each young athlete is physically examined. An injury or a physical complication can be detected easily during these examinations.

Promote Cross-Training

Playing the same sport every single day of the week can put excessive strain on selective muscles. Try to involve young players in more than one sport to ensure different muscle groups are exercised throughout the week. This will not only increase the stamina of the player but save them from many muscle and bone injuries. Schedule regular appointments with massage therapists to aid blood circulation and overall muscular health for athletes.

Warm-up Exercises

Stretching and other warm-up exercises can prevent muscle pulls and strains during any sporting activity. Skipping warming up can lead to an increased risk of injuries.

If your child has sustained a sporting injury, visit 5 Star Clinic and avail our therapeutic treatment for tennis elbow and other sports-related strains and trauma.