Playing it Safe in Youth Sports

  • By Lisa Amstutz
  • December 8, 2011
  • 295
                        
Teaser article: Playing it Safe in Youth Sports Youth sports are a popular and rewarding pastime for many local children and teens. Their many benefits include increased confidence, physical fitness and relational skills. However, it is important to play it safe, as the risk of injury is ever-present. For young athletes, moderation is key, said Dr. Anne Marie Chicorelli of Wooster, an orthopaedic and sports medicine specialist with pediatric training. “Don’t overdo it with too many sports throughout the year, and don’t do one sport all year round.” Year-round athletics increase the risk of repetitive stress injuries that can lead to arthritis in later years. Making sure children have—and wear--proper protective gear for their sport also helps to prevent injuries. Keep them well hydrated and schedule regular fluid breaks, especially in hot weather. Another key preventive measure is maintaining strength. Athletes become more prone to injury as they become fatigued toward the end of a game and also during the middle to end of the season. Weight training can help prevent injuries, along with proper rest periods and warm-up/cool-down routines. If an athlete is injured, be sure to allow them adequate time to rest and heal before resuming the activity. Seek medical treatment for severe injuries and for prolonged swelling or pain. If possible, Chicorelli recommends, find a physician who is trained in pediatric sports medicine. “Children are not little adults,” she said. “Their injuries are different because their growth plates are still open, and are often misdiagnosed as a result.” Dr. Chicorelli’s office is located at HealthPoint in Wooster. For more information, call 330-202-3420.


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