Every high school football player, their parents, and their coach want to have a successful season, and that means first and foremost one without any injuries. Only then can you be in your best physical shape to play the game and stay in the game. It doesn’t just happen. It takes planning and guidance. Let’s propose an orthopedic guide for high school football players.
Facts Players, Parents, and Coaches Should Know
No sport matches football in the number and severity of injuries each year at the high school level. A study by the Center for Injury Research found that 4 out of 1000 high school football player exposures ended in an injury compared to college players. High school players experienced more severe injuries with a greater proportion of season ending injuries, fractures and concussions.
These findings may cause parents to think twice about allowing their children to play football, but more and more coaches and athletic trainers are focusing on preventative measures to keep players in the game.
If a player does suffer any kind of orthopedic discomfort, contact Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic for an evaluation. Early intervention is the best way to prevent a problem from becoming worse.
What Are Early Preventative Measures?
Early preventative measures to reduce injury include the following tips.
Get in Pre-Season Shape
Don’t wait until the week before the season starts to start flexing those muscles. Maintaining fitness is key. Players should combine aerobic, strength training and flexibility training to stay in shape. Keep working at it during the season to maintain your strength.
Don’t Forget the Pre-Season Physical
Every athlete must get a “ready to play” certificate” from their physician before the start of the season.
Warming Up Is Non-Negotiable
This is one of the most important rituals before playing any sport but especially high school football. Otherwise you are just asking for an injury with cold muscles. Play special attention to your knees, calves, and thighs. Do some jumping jacks, running in place, and stretching.
Watch for Dehydration
Seems like a no brainer, but you would be surprised how kids forget to drink enough water. It is important to keep their muscles hydrated so they work properly and your body can cool itself through sweat. They should drink 24 oz two hours before any exercise, and then another 8 oz right before exercising. Remind them.
Cool Down Is Just as Important
After exercise or a game, it’s essential to cool down. Don’t ignore this important ritual if you want to prevent a future injury.
Essential Tips for Coaches and Parents
- Never allow an adolescent athlete to “play through the pain” no matter how much they tell you, “I’m fine, coach.”
- Never allow a high school player to come back from rehab if their injured area is still swollen or painful.
- Impress upon high school athletes to tell their coaches if they experience any pain or discomfort while playing or practicing.
Contact Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic for an evaluation if a member of your high school football team has an injury or has pain after playing. Give us a call at (703) 892-6500 or request an appointment through our secure online form.
Sources: High School Football: What Are the Chances of Injury? (healthline.com)
In spite of efforts to improve safety, risk of football injury remains high | UCLA Health
Tackling High School Football Injuries: Center for Orthopaedics: Orthopaedic Surgeons
