05/31/2018
It's vital that coaches and parents understand that youth athletes (which includes both children and teenagers) are not just small adult athletes!
Many of the injuries that occur in youth sports are overuse injuries. Unfortunately, these injuries can have effects that can last a lifetime if not treated promptly and adequately! Pain is the bodies way of telling you something is wrong, a youth athlete should never push through the pain of an injury in practice or competition.
Because young athletes are still growing, they are at a greater risk for injury than adults. The consequences of overdoing a sport can include injuries that impair growth, and may lead to long-term health problems. Fortunately, many youth sports injuries can be prevented.