Tips for Reducing Sports Injury
Many people play a sport just for having fun with others who share the same interest. It’s good idea to let our children to play sports as it would facilitate children’s physical and social development as well. But for some competitive sports, the chances of children getting hurt are very high though.
American Academy of Pediatrics has issued some tips on preventing sports injury physically and psychologically. Remind your child of these guidelines before playing whatever sports to ensure safety:
- 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.
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