Safety for young kids when playing sports is important. Your child may feel like a team player, but it’s poor judgment to play through practices and games when injured. At Syracuse Podiatry, we do not advocate playing through the pain of a sports-related injury, especially for young athletes. Continuing to stress an injured foot or ankle can result in even more damage than the original injury and may even end an athletic career.

Playing through a stress fracture can exacerbate that injury into a full fracture. It can even cause more injury in other spots as your body compensates to protect the original injury.

Encourage Your Child to Speak Up

Healthy sports means being aware of the limitations of your body. Have a serious conversation with your child about speaking up if they are injured during a practice or a competition. Help them understand that good health must come first over winning a game and that it’s acceptable to sit on the bench until physically cleared to return to the sport.

Watch for tell-tale signs of pain or injury: An unusual gait, favoring a foot, or limping. Please make an appointment for an evaluation if you notice anything unusual.

Preventing An Injury This School Year

• All coaches should be trained in their sports, first aid, and CPR.
• Each sport requires specific equipment and footwear – ensure your child is prepared.
• Coach your child on the importance of stretching, warming up, and cooling down.
• Encourage good hydration practices before, during, and after activities.

If your child develops a foot or ankle condition or injury, Syracuse Podiatry is here to help! Give us a call ASAP.

Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, Dr. Anne-Louise Smith, Dr. Justin Muser, Dr. Nicholas Cronin, and the rest of the staff at Syracuse Podiatry in East Syracuse, New York, can help treat and care for your feet. Call us at 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online to get help today.