Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, most of 2020 has been anything but typical. As the leaves begin to change and we become more accustomed to this “new normal,” some things are finally starting to get back to normal.
School’s finally in session again across north-central Indiana, and many student-athletes are back to having fun and participating in fall sports.
Avoid making any rookie mistakes. Whether your MVP is spending hours after class in the gym, on the field, or in the pool, read on to learn how you can help them stay safe—and prevent avoidable sports injuries—while they’re going for a big win.
Although you can’t prevent every accident, there are lots of things you can do to help your child or teen avoid being sidelined by an injury caused by playing fall sports. Some ways you can help include:
Learn more about common sports injuries for teens
“When in doubt, keep the athlete out” is wise advice. Long-term health is more important than a short-term win. Talk to your student-athlete and make sure they know that they don’t have to be tough and ignore the pain from an injury!
When kids attempt to play through their pain, their injuries often worsen. That’s why early intervention is always the best play.
Sometimes your student-athlete might not tell you they are injured. Look for signs that something is up. Problems can show up as a slight limp or a new way of throwing a ball. Always ask questions and find out what’s really happening so you can help them get care if they need it.
If your child is hurt and experiencing persistent pain, instability, or swelling during and after playing that doesn’t go away with rest, see a sports medicine doctor or orthopedic provider to evaluate their condition correctly and recommend, if appropriate, necessary treatments or therapies.
Logansport Memorial Hospital’s experienced team of sports medicine doctors, orthopedic surgeons, and physical therapists is committed to keeping your entire family healthy and active.
When your child is experiencing pain from a sports injury, we can help diagnose the issue and prescribe the best plan for recovery.
Learn more about sports medicine at LMH