Youth sports are a great way for your child to exercise more frequently, socialize, and create a new hobby. But did you know millions of student athletes get injuries each year during school sports?

Nearly 3.2 million children each year experience a sports-related injury. In addition, sports injuries were the leading cause of hospitalizations for children between the ages of 12 and 17. However, most sports injuries are highly preventable. Medical experts recommend that student athletes can avoid most injuries with a few preventive steps:

• Stretching before athletic events or activity
• Getting the appropriate sports and injury physicals before an event
• Learning skills to avoid injuries such as defensive skills like properly falling or proper athletic technique
• Adequate rest before and after certain athletic events
• Secure and appropriate athletic gear such as pads and helmets

But some injuries are likely to happen even though maintain the proper prevention techniques. So what are some common athletic injuries to look out for and how can you treat these injuries?

Ankle and muscle sprains

Ankle injuries and similar lower-body muscle sprains are the most common type of sport injury your child will experience.

Usually, these injuries require basic first aid before going to either an urgent care center or the emergency room. First aid for lower body leg and ankle injuries includes ice, compression, and taking weight off of the injured limb.

Depending upon the severity of the injury, you may have to take your child to the emergency room for major injuries like an ACL tear. However, most ankle and muscle sprains only require urgent care treatment.

Knee injuries and hip/groin injuries

Across most youth sports there is a significant chance that an athlete could experience a knee injury. For the most part, knee injuries happen when two players make contact with one another and the athlete’s knee hits the ground or another player with a lot of force.

Additionally, hip and groin injuries that are common in youth sports include pulled groins and hip flexor sprains. Sometimes a knee, hip, or groin injury could require emergency room care. This is especially the case for significant groin injuries.

Head injuries

Head injuries such as concussions are also an injury possibility during some youth sports. Especially during contact sports such as football, head injuries are likely to happen and may require a doctor’s visit to further evaluate.

Even though youth sports may lead to injuries it should dissuade you or your child from enrolling. Be aware of the risks, learn the prevention techniques, and most importantly have fun while on the field/pitch/court!