Orthopedic surgeon Gregory Nicholson, MD, outlines measures athletes should take to avoid injuries.
Here are five things to note:
1. Each year, approximately 3.5 million children under the age 14 need to be treated for sports-related injuries.
2. Experts such as Dr. Nicholson emphasize the importance of cross-training rather than specializing solely in one sport.
3. Physicians also stress limiting participation in a specific sport-related activity to five days or less to reduce the chance of injury.
4. Dr. Nicholson practices at Rush University Medical Center where he specializes in shoulder and elbow surgery. Shoulder injuries are becoming increasingly prevalent among young athletes as they tend to focus on participating in a single sport all year.
5. Recent studies have concluded young athletes who participate in various sports have fewer injuries and can play longer at higher levels compared to those who focus on one sport before puberty.
For more on orthopedics:
Thompson Healthcare & Sports Medicine family receives fundraising award
8 facts to note on hip arthroscopy's role after hip resurfacing arthroplasty
Orthopedic surgeon to know: Dr. Mark Muller of The Carrell Clinic