Is your child one of the more than 3 million kids who participate in soccer every year? Soccer is a steadily growing sport for young kids, and it allows a lot of children to stay active and have fun. But any activity for children comes with the potential of injuries and other physical issues. How can you make sure your child is safe?
Get equipment that fits.
There's always a temptation with kids to get the next size up. When children grow so fast, you want to make sure that what you buy lasts as long as possible. But in most sports -- and soccer is no exception -- size matters. Buying too big and giving "room to grow" can create the possibility of injuries.
Let's focus on footwear. Younger kids may not be required to have soccer cleats to participate, but if they are outdoors on slippery grass, then the traction that cleats give can help prevent falls. Even though it's tempting to let your child play in his or her regular athletic shoes, a pair of sturdy cleats is a good buy. Check at second-hand stores or find shoe exchanges through your child's soccer program to save money.
Shoes must fit properly as well. When you add in the extra bulk of shin guards and thicker socks, you may need a size or two larger than your child normally wears. But don't overdo it -- shoes that are too large can cause blisters or fly off during play. Take both shin guards and soccer socks with you when you try on shoes.
Visit a chiropractor who specializes in sports.
Even at the youth level, injuries from the fast starts and directional changes of soccer are common. Chiropractic care can help prevent injuries through proper alignment and can fix minor issues before they become big problems.
It's not just obvious injuries that are a concern: Overuse injuries are showing up even in kids' sports. Children may have strains and stresses on their growth plates, impacting their growing bones and leading to life-long issues. Chiropractors can assess your child's sports and practice schedule and advise on proper warm-ups to lessen the chance of injury.
In addition to correcting neuromuscular abnormalities, chiropractors can be a great resource for training and sports nutrition. Most kids' soccer team coaches are well-meaning parents who don't have a background in these areas, so enlisting the help of a professional such as Dr. Paul Lyons can make a big difference in how well your child maintains his or her health throughout the season.
Eat right and stay hydrated.
Speaking of sports nutrition, keeping your child properly fed and incorporating the right nutrients into his or her diet is especially important for athletes. Soccer players of all ages need the right balance of healthy carbohydrates and protein before and after practices and games. Plus, plenty of leafy greens, other vegetables and fruits can provide the nutrients required to for energy and growth while participating in athletics.
Water isn't just for breaks in the game, either. Keep your child well-hydrated with plain water throughout the week. Sports drinks aren't usually required for kids and are a source of non-nutritive sugars. Talk to your chiropractor, pediatrician or sports medicine professional for more information about nutrition and hydration appropriate for your child's level of play.
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