Football season evokes strong emotions of excitement and enthusiasm for those who love and play the sport. If your child plays football, you no doubt, feel the same emotions as your child. Football can put a lot of stress on the body and while it's a fun time, it is also a time for you to help your child protect his feet and ankles from injury while playing football. Pay attention to the following tips to maximize your child's protection from football injuries to his feet and ankles.
Buy Proper Cleats
When buying cleats, it is imperative to buy cleats that fit properly. Ill-fitting cleats are one of the most common reasons why children receive football-related injuries. Shoes that are too small will be uncomfortable and could cause injury if your child can't move properly. Shoes that are too big will be too loose to provide the right amount of support. High-top cleats are a good choice as they provide much needed ankle support. This is especially a good idea if your child is a lineman.
Avoid a twisted ankle by buying cleats with rubber outsoles because they repel water and make slipping less likely. Synthetic cleats provide extra cushioning and support that your child will need while running on the field.
Encourage Your Child to Warm Up
Properly warming up before and after a football game will allow your child to stretch his muscles which will reduce the likelihood of injury. Light jogging will get the blood flowing and get your child ready for the game. The warm up should be a priority right before the game. Going into a game cold could lead to overuse and overstretching of muscles which could result in injury leaving your child out of the game for the remainder of the season.
Tell Your Child to Listen to His Body
Most kids don't want to let others know when they are in pain. They would prefer to push through the pain and play the game to the end. However, this is the worst thing your child could do because doing so could result in further injury. Some injuries are minor while others result in significant pain and take a considerable amount of time to heal. It is best to heed the warning your body gives you and rest even if it means sitting out a game or two. If your child sustains an injury during the game, they should notify the coach, athletic trainer, or sideline physician.
Wrap the Ankles
Using tape to wrap your child's ankles can provide the extra support needed to avoid injury such as a twisted ankle or stress-related injury. Tape also works well with high-top cleats previously mentioned. Any extra support will help your child avoid injury to his feet and ankles during football games.
Stay Hydrated
Make sure your child drinks plenty of water or sports drinks before, during and after the game. Dehydration can affect performance and poor performance can lead to injury.
While football is fun, it also is a sport that can result in injury. Following the previously mentioned tips will ensure your child is protected while playing the sport you both love.