Preventing Injury: What Every Parent and Young Athlete Should Know

By Janice Lane Palko

The body has hundreds of bones and muscles working together to produce the smooth and dynamic motion required to excel in sports. With so many intricate parts, young athletes are at risk for injuries. Tendons tear, bones break and muscles are strained. However, taking simple precautionary steps may prevent most injuries.

“Sports injuries are often caused by an imbalance among the muscles, tendons and ligaments,” said Michael W. Weiss, M.D., orthopedic surgeon with Tri Rivers Surgical Associates. “When stronger muscles overcompensate for weaker muscles, the stronger muscles risk injury.”

The best ways to prevent this type of injury are to condition and always stretch. An athlete’s training should include a wide assortment of exercises and stretches, focusing on a variety of muscles to improve balance within the muscular system. Other simple prevention methods include rest and using proper equipment.

“Athletes should be encouraged to take a day off after several training sessions to allow the body to rest,” Dr. Weiss said. “If an athlete plays or conditions too frequently, the body does not have time to heal itself.”

Protective equipment and correct footwear can also prevent injuries. Padding is necessary to prevent trauma to the body in contact sports, and correct footwear may reduce an athlete’s risk of ankle sprains and ACL tears.

When an injury does occur, basic home treatments may help. For mild to moderate pain, it may be enough to rest, ice the area and take over-the-counter pain medication. A physician should be consulted if the athlete experiences instability or deformity around the joint, if pain persists or worsens or if the swelling is not reduced within 24 to 48 hours.

For more information on preventing sports injuries or other orthopedic concerns, contact Tri Rivers Surgical Associates toll free at 1-866-874-7483. Tri Rivers orthopedic surgeons see patients in McCandless, Cranberry/Mars and Butler.

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