Prevention Tips

OPT FOR VARIETY
Encourage your kids to switch from one sport to another during the year. Be sure to choose activities that don't stress the same muscles and joints

TAKE A BREAK
Children who focus on a single sport need to take three months to recover, even if they're uninjured. The temptation to play year round is often great in sunny places like Texas and California

CHECK OUT THE COACH
The best ones have an easy relationship with parents and children and know which drills minimize the risk of injury

DON'T FORGET THE CORE
Strengthening muscles involved in maintaining balance can avoid many problems

BE AWARE
Pain plus tenderness over a joint is often a sign of an overuse injury. Any pain that lingers or interferes with performance should be evaluated by a doctor