Parents should promote safe
sports for children
More American children are
competing in sports than ever before. Sports help children and adolescents keep their
bodies fit and feel good about themselves. Dr. Anatole Karpovs, pediatrician at the
Children’s Clinic of SWLA, cautions parents to take measures to prevent injury and
promote a safe, optimal sports experience for their child.
“Most injuries occur to ligaments, tendons and muscles. Only about 5 percent
of sports injuries involve broken bones. However, the areas where bones grow in children
are at more risk of injury during the rapid growth phase of puberty,” said Karpovs.
Most frequent sports injuries are sprains (injuries to ligaments) and strains
(injuries to muscles), caused when too much stress is placed on tendons, joints, bones and
muscle. Karpovs advises children participating in sports to have a complete physical exam
to make sure they are in good health and can safely play the game.
The
American
Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
recommends some tips to reduce injury:
Wear the right gear. Players should wear
appropriate protective equipment such as pads (neck, shoulder, elbow, chest, knee, shin),
helmets, mouthpieces, face guards, protective cups, and/or eyewear.
Increase flexibility. Stretching exercises
before and after games can increase flexibility.
Strengthen muscles. Conditioning exercises
during practice and before games strengthens muscles used in play.
Use the proper technique. This should be
reinforced during the playing season.
Take breaks. Rest
periods during practice and games can reduce injuries.
Play safe.
Strict rules
against headfirst sliding (baseball and softball), spearing (football), and body checking
(ice hockey) should be enforced.
Stop the activity if there is pain.
Avoid heat injury by drinking plenty of
fluids before, during and after exercise or play; decrease or stop practices or
competitions during high heat/humidity periods; wear light clothing.
“The pressure to win can cause significant emotional stress for a child. Sadly, many
coaches and parents consider winning the most important aspect of sports,” said
Karpovs. “Young athletes should be judged
on effort, sportsmanship and hard work. They should be rewarded for trying hard and for
improving their skills rather than punished or criticized for losing a game or
competition.”
To reduce
stress in your child’s sport, the AAP recommends that parents look for positive
programs and avoid placing their child in a “win at all costs” or intensive
programs for elite players that play 4 to 5 times each week.
Parents are advised to get to know the coaches and avoid those who are
abusive toward any child.
“Make sure
your child plays with and against other children in the same age range and ability,”
Karpovs said. “Help your child improve
her skills with extra practices, sports camps, or outside help.”
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