Goals have been scored. Touchdown passes thrown. And just like that, the fall sports season is halfway done.
Whether a player on the field, runner on a cross-country course, or cheerleader atop a human pyramid, every fall athlete is at risk for a sports injury.
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), more than 2.6 million kids (up to 19 years of age) are treated in the ER annually for sports and recreation-related injuries.
We treat a good number of young student athletes here at Texas Orthopedics every day.
Here’s what we’re currently seeing:
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Overuse injuries
There’s also an uptick of sports-related concussions reported during the fall.
In order to be able to play safely through to the winter season, here are some reminders for staying injury-free:
Continue to check all equipment (helmets, shoes, shin guards, mouth guards, etc.) regularly for damage and proper fit.
Keep in constant communication with coaches and trainers and let them know if you are in pain, sick or struggling and need a brief break from games or practices.
Stay fueled up with a healthy diet and tons of water to hydrate as the fall is still typically very warm in Central Texas.
Follow all instructions from your physician or orthopedist for rest and recovery if you’ve already suffered an injury this season.
Please contact us if your child needs to be seen for a sports injury, or if it’s after-hours (as most sports injuries tend to be), visit our Urgent Injury Clinic where no appointment is necessary.
