Life is full of risk, even when it comes to playing sports. However, by wearing the right equipment and taking certain precautions, many sports injuries among young athletes can be prevented.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care TN wants to offer some tips on what sports injuries are common, as well as steps to take to prevent and treat injuries.

Are Sports Injuries Common?

The short answer is yes. Millions of children in the United States participate in sports, and more than a million sports-related injuries are diagnosed each year in kids.

But while they’re common, they can largely be prevented with a few basics—wear sport-specific safety equipment during practices and games, be certain to use correct form, hydrate properly, and seek immediate treatment for any head injury.

Sports Injuries That Are Common

• Knee injuries
• Shoulder injuries
• Tennis elbow
• Golf elbow
• Hamstring strain
• Sciatica
• Shin splints
• Groin pull
• Concussion

Why Do Sports Cause Injuries?

Many times a sports injury is due to overuse or direct impact during a practice or game. While everything should be done to try and prevent a sports injury from occurring, sometimes an injury will still occur.

Fortunately, there are ways to treat that injury so that further damage doesn’t take place.

Treatment of Sports Injuries

• Restrict activity.
• Apply ice to the affected area.
• Apply compression to the affected area.
• Elevate the injured area.
• Rest.
• Seek immediate medical attention for any head injury.

Does your young athlete need a sports physical before hitting the field? Stop by one of AFC Urgent Care TN locations today! No appointment is necessary.