A serious sports injury can change your life forever. In children’s sports, staying injury-free is a priority. The most common injury children sustain are strains and sprains, however, more serious injuries are possible.
Types of Child Sports Related Injuries
With around 30 million children and teens participating in sports, it’s no surprise that many injuries do occur. Each year, around 3.5 million injuries happen while a child is playing sports. In most cases, the children suffer sprains or strains, which heal over time.
Sadly, some injuries aren’t as simple as a sprain or strain. Some children suffer from traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or other injuries that can lead to death. Brain injuries are the leading cause of sports-related deaths.
Factors in Child Sports Injuries
Sports injuries are most likely to occur when a child is between 5 and 14 years of age. The sports that are most dangerous are contact sports like football or wrestling. Other sports, like baseball or tennis, also result in injuries, but far less often.
Interestingly, it’s during practice when most injuries occur, even though this is the time with the most oversight. Approximately 62 percent of sports-related injuries happen during practices.
Alaskan Sports and Activities
Here in Alaska, the most common team sports include hockey and soccer (indoor and outdoor). In addition, cross country skiing is one of the most widely practiced sports in Fairbanks. Other winter specific recreational sports include ice-skating, sledding, downhill skiing and snowboarding. Here are a few reminders to keep children safe:
- Wear helmets and protective head gear
- Check that all gear is functional and operational
- Encourage children to stretch and stay hydrated
What to do if your Child has been Injured
With these facts in mind, if you believe your child has been hurt because of a coach’s negligence or a lack of training, it’s important to speak up. You may be able to seek compensation for the injuries your child has suffered. Your attorney can tell you more about sports-related injuries and what to expect if you decide to take your case to court.
For further information or to schedule a free initial
consultation call 866.452.3741
or visit www.merdes.com. The Merdes Law Firm has been helping
injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are; and while we hope you
never need us … We’re here if you do.
Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine, “Sports Injury Statistics,” accessed June 14, 2017
