5 Ways to Prevent Spring Sports Injuries

17 Mar 5 Ways to Prevent Spring Sports Injuries

Excited coaches, players and parents are finally headed to the ballfield for the spring baseball and softball season! Whether your kids are in elementary or high school a lot of preparation must go into spring sports to keep our athletes safe. We have some tips to help you do just that.

Tip # 1. Be sure athletes are mentally prepared for the season. Don’t push your children into something they don’t want to do. If your children don’t like to play a sport but they go to practice because you force them to, they will play sloppily. Playing sloppily only increases the chance that they could injure themselves or another player. If your students have been injured in the past, it’s critical they have a mindset of confidence when returning to the field. Ironically, trying to avoid an injury because of fear actually puts them in a greater risk of being injured. If fear of injury is keeping them back, ensure them that you and their coaches will work with them to help prevent another injury.

Tip # 2. Be sure your athlete is physically prepared for the season. While it’s a good idea to take a break during the off season if your students haven’t been keeping active in some way, they may be at risk of injury. If they have become unfit, they might injure themselves while struggling to keep up with their peers in practice. If your students have become inactive, start exercising several weeks before practice starts to build them back up. Also, having your children taken for a pre-participation examination can determine their readiness to play and can uncover any condition that might limit their participation.

Tip # 3. Pay attention to sport specific injuries. The most common injuries in baseball and softball are injuries to the shoulders, elbows and knees. It has also been found that female athletes are more prone to ACL injuries than males. This might be something for softball players to consider. Know where your athletes vulnerabilities are, and encourage them to strengthen those weaknesses.

Tip # 4. Practice good hygiene. Hygiene is very important for preventing the spread of bacterial and fungal infections as well as other illnesses. A few years ago in an area high school, the whole basketball team ended up with a very bad staff infection because they passed around a single towel after their post practice shower in the locker room. These guys were so sick they had to forfeit many of the games later in the season. Discourage the sharing of towels, athletic gear, water bottles, disposable razors, hair clippers, or any other personal item. Also be sure all equipment is washed and disinfected regularly.

Tip # 5. Keep hydrated. The weather is starting to get warmer. While it may be enjoyable right now, toward the end of the season it will be squelching. The hot humid weather puts athletes at risk of serious heat illnesses like dehydration and heat stroke. Be sure your athletes are hydrating before, during, and after practice and games. Encourage them to drink 16-18 ounces of water before practice and 16-20 ounces of an electrolyte replacing sports drink after practice.