More children are participating in youth sports programs than ever before, often at highly competitive levels. Sports help children stay fit and feel good about themselves while building important communities. With this increase in sport participation, there is an increase in injury. One of the most important injury prevention tips to help parents promote a safe and optimal sport experience for their child is ensuring that they participate in regular practice.

The most frequently seen injuries include sprains, strains and stress fractures. These are typically due to excessive stress placed on tendons, joints, bones or muscles.

In order to avoid these types of injuries, here are a few tips to consider:

• Ensure that your child takes time off. A good rule of thumb is at least 1 day off per week and at least one month off per year from training for a particular sport.
  
• Make sure your child has appropriate and properly fitted protective equipment such as pads (neck, shoulder, elbow, chest, knee, shin), helmets, mouthpieces, face guards, protective cups, and eyewear.
  
• Ensure your child is in optimal physical condition. Conditioning exercises during practice strengthens muscles used in play.
  
• Encouraging flexibility work. Stretching exercises before and after games or practice can increase flexibility.
• Use the proper technique. This should be reinforced during the playing season.
• Ensuring your child takes rest periods during practice and games to reduce injuries and prevent heat illness.
  
• Never let your child play or practice through pain.

If you have additional questions about the importance of practice or these other youth injury prevention tips, please reach out!