How To Prevent Student-Athlete Injuries During Sports

Schools provide opportunities for all students to participate in interscholastic, competitive athletics throughout the school year. The start of a new sports season is an exciting time, as our player's transition from one sport to another. With all of this excitement and the abrupt downtime of a break, early season injuries can be very common. However, by pacing one’s self and properly preparing the body, any athlete can take the initiative to ensure that they will start their season on the right foot.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , "More than 2.6 million children 0-19 years old are treated in the emergency department each year for sports and recreation-related injuries." The begining of a sports season poses the biggest threat to our athletes. Just as one begins to adjust to the routine of after-school activity, they find themselves on a vacation that can detract from their training. This can cause unnecessary, minor injuries as their bodies readjust to the strain of sports after the sudden break. In order to best prepare for the upcoming season, there are a few helpful tips your children can follow while acclimating back to their sports:

1. Wear protective gear such as helmets, protective pads, and other gear specific to the sport.
2. Warm up and cool down.
3. Know the rules of the game.
4. Stay hydrated.
5. Don't play when injured.
6. Acclimate to environmental conditions gradually. Don't continue participation if there is a risk of becoming too hot or too cold.  
7. If an injury occurs, remember to follow the R.I.C.E. protocol. An injury can sometimes be healed with Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (if no fracture is suspected).

The sports season can be a valuable avenue of growth for your child. Don’t let that opportunity be taken away by a minor or preventable injury. Ensure that your child is following proper preparation guidelines before engaging in athletic activity, and always make sure they are giving their body adequate time to rest and recover. Having a successful season can also empower your child to develop healthy athletic habits throughout the school year!

Reference: “Sports Safety.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 14 Mar. 2017, www.cdc.gov/safechild/sports_injuries/index.html.

Troby Roosevelt is a Technology Associate, Upper School Health Instructor, Visual Arts Instructor, Upper School JV soccer coach, Upper School winter track assistant coach. 

Staci Krape is a former Health Instructor and current Upper School Science Instructor.

Our Sanford School Athletics Department includes two dedicated athletic trainers. One trainer is on site during all sports activities. To contact the Sanford School Athletic Trainer call: 302.235.6524.

See Also: It's a Hard-Knock Life: Taking Concussions Seriously