ATHENS, Ohio – Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the world of fall youth sports, parents and guardians can all learn something new. Sergio A. Ulloa, D.O., OhioHealth Physician Group orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine physician at the Castrop Center in Athens, offers tips to help young athletes have the most successful season possible.
Stretch and hydrate
Dr. Ulloa said the most common types of injuries he sees in his practice during this season are muscle strains, such as pulled hamstrings, and cramping. These are usually caused by one of two things: lack of warm-up or lack of water. Kids are excited to be back with their friends and playing sports, so they often forget the importance of stretching and hydrating.
“As we get older, we learn to appreciate the beauty of stretching. I mean, it’s honestly, one of the things that we just don’t do enough of, especially as a kid. I remember putting on my soccer shoes two seconds before I had to go play soccer” Dr. Ulloa remarked.
Just as stretching prepares muscles for play, pre-hydration prepares the body for exertion. Most coaches understand that water breaks are extremely important when playing sports, even in the cooler weather. However, it’s also important to drink plenty of water before practices and games. (Kids may be more prone to reach for the brightly colored Gatorade or Powerade, plain water is cheaper and more effective, Dr. Ulloa said.)
Hold the RICE
If your child is injured, adults should be aware that RICE — rest, ice, compression and elevation — is no longer the recommended treatment for many sport-related injuries…