Fall Sports Tips for Young Athletes

At NY Foot Health, we know families are getting ready for school, which means back to fall sports. Being part of a team has many benefits for children and teens, from increasing physical activity to building relational and leadership skills. It can also, however, be an opportunity for a foot or ankle injury. Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent sports injuries. Help ensure your young athlete gets off to a safe start with these tips.

Check Up on Foot Concerns—if your child has suffered a sport or other podiatric injury such as an ankle sprain in the past or if they have a chronic problem like Sever’s disease or flat feet, schedule an exam with your podiatrist to evaluate their current condition. The foot doctor will recommend any necessary accommodations to protect your child’s feet while playing sports. Don’t have a podiatrist? Use our online directory to locate one near you.

Gear Up—wear the proper protective equipment likes pads and shin guards to ensure safe play. When it comes to feet, the most important piece of equipment is footwear. Buy athletic shoes designed specifically for the sport your child plays and make sure they get professionally fitted.

Learn Proper Technique—learning the correct way to move and make plays is excellent to lower injury risk. The correct form and technique should be emphasized in practice and games.

Strengthen and Condition—focus on conditioning to increase general fitness and build stamina. Make sure stretching is a part of the daily workout to help muscles stay flexible.

Take Breaks—most common chronic sports injuries are due to overuse. Avoid repetitive actions on one part of the foot or leg. Vary the routine and take rests throughout the week. It’s also good to rest between sports seasons. Children and teens who go directly from one sport to another year-round are more likely to suffer from chronic pain and damage to joints, muscles, and ligaments.

Never Play Through Pain—if your child gets hurt or is experiencing ongoing pain during play, make sure they get off the field or court and seek medical attention promptly. Ignoring injuries can lead to long-term disabilities and missed playing time.

To learn more about ways to protect your children’s feet, contact us and subscribe to our free e-newsletter.