Kids are getting ready to go back to school -- and that means getting back to their favorite sports. Although playing a sport can help kids stay fit, make friends, and learn life skills, there’s nothing worse than getting taken off the field by an injury. Here are five ways your children can stay safe and enjoy sports all season long.
Drink enough water. Exercising outdoors when it’s hot makes you sweat more and become dehydrated faster than normal. Make sure your kids drink water even if they don’t feel thirsty -- they may already be dehydrated if they wait until they’re parched.
Stretch before any physical activity. When muscles go from idle to active without stretching first, they can sustain damage. No matter what sport they’re playing, kids should start with a brief warm-up and stretching session.
Wear proper protective gear. It’s not just the rough sports like football and hockey; kids should wear the right protection for any activity. Check what types of helmets, shin guards, footwear, and other gear are recommended by the sport’s governing body.
Eat a well-balanced diet. Did you know your child’s nutrition can impact their chances of a sports injury? Active kids need protein to repair their muscles, complex carbs for energy, and micronutrients like calcium to prevent bone fractures.
Get a yearly physical. Before your child starts any athletic program, be sure to take them in for a sports physical. Their doctor can foresee any problems and give them tips to stay happy and healthy.
If you’re concerned about your child’s risk of sports injury this school year, see your family healthcare provider for guidance. We hope you and your kids thrive in the year ahead!
To find out how you can be a patient at SAC Health or to make an appointment with a SAC Health provider, visit sachealth.org/patients.
