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practiced as widely as it is today. Through self-learning he became an expert in childhood sports injuries. As more and more children become involved in sports, he has seen more and more young athletes come through his office.
Like adults, the most common injuries kids suffer are strains on muscles and joints. Fractures are also a common sight. Dr. Stringer says such injuries typically happen along the growth plates, where developing children are most vulnerable. The normal growth pains that all adolescents encounter can also affect their performance on the field.
Most parents want to encourage their kids to play sports, but there are a few things they should watch out for when a child joins a team. One of the biggest problems for young athletes is that, although children develop physically at very different rates, their sports teams are usually divided by age group. That means a child may be facing off against someone who is several inches taller and many pounds heavier, despite being the same age. In a heavy contact sport like hockey, that size disparity can lead to some dangerous situations.
Dr. Stringer offers the same advice to child athletes as he would to adults. In order to stay injury free, be sure to stretch properly before and after workouts and avoid overworking the body. Also be sure to use all the proper safety equipment. There have been many developments in the area of safety that have spared many broken bones.
Most importantly, kids should have fun out there. The drive to win can be stressful on young people, but with the right attitude and the right training they can stay on the field and have a great time too.
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