An active lifestyle is a critical component of a holistic upbringing. However, making sports a priority will naturally lead to greater risk of sports-related injuries. To help optimise your child’s sporting experience, we share five injury prevention tips.
1. Physical Assessment
As each child’s physical development is unique, the issues he or she faces may be very different from another child of the same age. Periodical assessment by a doctor or a health professional is a proactive way of maintaining your child’s health in a customised manner. It’s also a good opportunity to discuss current and potential concerns.
2. Proper Equipment
Ensure your child’s equipment fits appropriately. If your child plays tennis, get advice from his or her coach on the correct racquet length, weight, grip size, string tension and shoes. Eyewear should also be made of shatterproof material.
Remember to get sunglasses with good UVA and UVB protection to protect your child’s eyes, and a cap or visor for extra shade. If your child is returning from an injury, discuss with your child’s healthcare professional on any protective gears that he or she needs.
3. Warm Up and Cool Down
Be vigilant about warming up and cooling down when you exercise. These routines help prevent injury by improving blood circulation, muscle development and increasing your child’s range of motion.
The warming up regime helps prepare the body for exercise by increasing heart rate, circulation, blood flow, as well as loosening joints and muscles. A mix of a static and dynamic stretching can go a long way in preventing any injuries or muscle pulls. The cool down regime promotes effective recovery from physical activities by speeding up lactate removal from the blood.
4. Proper Hydration
Most kids will forget to hydrate, especially when they’re having fun. Ensure that your child takes fluids before, during and after a match or practice session. It’s especially important in Singapore’s hot and humid climate.
Some common symptoms of heat-related illnesses include headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting. You should seek medical help if your child’s condition deteriorates despite efforts to bring down his or her body temperature.
5. Early Detection and Intervention
Be open when your child complains about any pain. Look for any unusual changes in technique or behaviour, which can be a way to avoid pain. If the issue persists, consider getting your child assessed by a kids doctor. It’s also important to watch for non-verbal cues, as your child may either have a high threshold for pain or may not be able to articulate the discomfort.
We understand the stresses of parenthood, especially when your child is unwell. See a doctor quickly via our 24/7 video-call services, without having to leave your house, so that your child can get the medical care they need.
