Participating in sports is a great way for teenagers to improve their physical fitness, learn about teamwork, and build self-confidence. The more your teen plays sports, however, the greater their risk for sports injuries. Below, learn how you can help teen athletes prevent injuries so they can keep playing the sports they love.

Use Protective Equipment

Athletes of any age should always wear appropriate protective gear when playing sports. Whether your teen needs a helmet and pads for football, shin guards for soccer, or a mouth guard for wrestling, supplying them with the proper safety equipment is a crucial part of helping them prevent sports injuries. Make sure your young athlete knows how to adjust their gear correctly to get the best fit and most protection.

Understand the Importance of Nutrition

To help their bodies perform at their best, young athletes need a well-balanced diet that includes protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. If your child participates in a sport that focuses on maintaining a particular weight, consult a doctor about how to help them get the proper nutrition. Emphasize the importance of hydration, and ensure that your teen drinks plenty of water before and after their game or practice session, as well as every 20 minutes during play. 

Attend Regular Physicals

Typically, organized sports require their athletes to have sports physicals before participating. Even during the off-season, however, it’s a smart idea to take your teen to the doctor’s office for regular checkups to spot any potential problems that could put them at risk for sports injuries. Making sure their joints, muscles, bones, vision, and hearing are in top-notch condition can help teen athletes perform their best and stay safe while playing sports.

The experienced physicians at Monroe Urgent Care in Monroe, OH, are dedicated to providing quality health services, including injury care, with short wait times at affordable prices. Their team treats sports injuries, administers flu vaccines, and provides a wide variety of other health care options for busy parents and professionals who don’t have time to go to the doctor’s office. Call (513) 461-2273 to speak to one of their representatives or visit their website to learn more about their services.