Andria Head, PA-C
Central Nebraska Children & Adolescent Clinic
More than 3.5 million sports injuries occur each year in the United States, affecting all ages and skill levels. Because some of these injuries can lead to long-term disability, chronic pain and reduced quality of life, it is important to do what we can to prevent these injuries, especially in children or adolescents.
In the event injuries do occur, early intervention improves outcomes. Parents and coaches should prioritize education about injuries and take a team approach to enhancing athlete safety.
Common sports injuries include:
- Sprains and strains (soft-tissue injuries)
- Fractures
- Dislocations
- Concussions (traumatic brain injuries)
- Overuse injuries (tendinitis, stress fractures)
Factors that increase an athletes risk of injury include:
- Poor conditioning or lack of warm-up
- Improper technique
- Inadequate equipment
- Previous injuries
- Overtraining / insufficient rest
- Environmental conditions (heat, cold)
Many injuries can be prevented. Some prevention strategies include:
- Pre-participation physical exams. Your provider can help identify risk factors and take steps to minimize risk.
- Strength and conditioning programs can stabilize joints and enhance balance and mobility.
- Proper warm-up and cool-down
- Use of appropriate protective gear
- Education on safe techniques
- Hydration and nutrition: Athletes typically need an extra 500-1,500 kcal/day during the sports season. They should also hydrate before, during and after exercise.
Correctly fitted and maintained protective equipment is important. Please use things like:
- Helmets (reduce head injury risk)
- Mouth guards (prevent dental injuries)
- Pads and braces
- Proper footwear
Being aware of the signs and symptoms of concussion is also important. If an athlete has a headache, dizziness, confusion or nausea, it is a good idea to have them sit out of the game or activity. Once symptoms resolve and the athlete is cleared by a healthcare provider, he or she may begin a gradual return to play.
Other things to watch for:
- Heat exhaustion: Normal mental state, profuse sweating, nausea, cramps and headache.
- Treatment: Urgent cooling and hydration
- Heat stroke: Altered mental state, heavy sweating or no sweating, body temperature of 103-106 degrees F, severe headache and fainting
- Treatment: Call 9-1-1 immediately
- Neck/spine injuries, severe bleeding and loss of consciousness
- Treatment: Stabilize the athlete, call 9-1-1, follow an emergency action plan
If you have additional questions about sports safety, please contact the Central Nebraska Children & Adolescent Clinic at 402-463-6828.
