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Sports Doctor: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Joseph Heller

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Published in The Young Athlete: A Sports Doctor S Complete Guide For Parents

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What is a Sports Doctor?

A sports doctor is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of injuries related to sports and exercise. Sports doctors are also known as sports medicine physicians or pediatric sports medicine physicians.

Sports doctors have a unique understanding of the physical demands of different sports and the injuries that are common in each sport. They are also trained to provide comprehensive care for young athletes, including injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.

The Young Athlete: A Sports Doctor's Complete Guide for Parents

by Jordan D. Metzl

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	306 pages

When Should You See a Sports Doctor?

You should see a sports doctor if your child has:

* A sports-related injury that is not improving with home treatment * A sports-related injury that is causing pain, swelling, or decreased range of motion * A history of sports-related injuries * Concerns about your child's sports performance * Questions about injury prevention

What to Expect at a Sports Doctor Appointment

At your child's sports doctor appointment, the doctor will:

* Ask about your child's medical history and symptoms * Perform a physical examination * Order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, if necessary * Make a diagnosis * Develop a treatment plan

Your child's treatment plan may include:

* Rest * Ice * Compression * Elevation * Physical therapy * Medication * Surgery

How to Choose a Sports Doctor

When choosing a sports doctor for your child, it is important to consider:

* The doctor's experience and training * The doctor's reputation * The doctor's location * The doctor's fees

You may also want to ask your child's pediatrician for a referral.

Sports Injury Prevention

The best way to prevent sports injuries is to:

* Warm up before exercising * Cool down after exercising * Stay hydrated * Use proper equipment * Play on safe surfaces * Avoid overtraining * Listen to your body and take breaks when needed

Common Sports Injuries

Some of the most common sports injuries include:

* Sprains * Strains * Fractures * Dislocations * Concussions

Concussions

A concussion is a brain injury that is caused by a blow to the head. Concussions can range in severity from mild to severe.

Symptoms of a concussion may include:

* Headache * Nausea * Vomiting * Dizziness * Confusion * Memory loss * Difficulty concentrating * Sensitivity to light and sound * Sleep problems

If your child has any of these symptoms after a blow to the head, it is important to see a doctor right away.

Treatment for Concussions

The treatment for a concussion is rest. This means avoiding all activities that could worsen the symptoms, such as:

* Schoolwork * Sports * Exercise * Video games * TV * Computer use

The doctor may also recommend:

* Over-the-counter pain relievers * Ice packs * A quiet, dark room

Most concussions improve within a few weeks. However, some concussions can take longer to heal.

Preventing Concussions

The best way to prevent concussions is to wear a helmet when participating in sports or other activities that could lead to a head injury.

Other ways to prevent concussions include:

* Avoiding head-to-head contact * Tackling with proper technique * Using proper equipment * Playing on safe surfaces

Sports doctors play an important role in the health and well-being of young athletes. They can help to prevent injuries, diagnose and treat injuries, and provide guidance on injury rehabilitation.

By following these tips, you can help your child stay safe and healthy while playing sports.

The Young Athlete: A Sports Doctor's Complete Guide for Parents

by Jordan D. Metzl

4.2 out of 5