- Make sure backpacks have two well-padded straps and weigh a maximum of 15 percent of your child’s body weight.
- Double-check your child’s athletic shoes for fit and wear. If they don’t fit your child’s growing feet or if they are worn out, it may be time to get a new pair.
- Is your child ready for sports? Can they run without pain or a limp? Can they jump up and down on one foot without pain and with good strength and coordination? If not, they may have an injury that needs attention and they may be at risk for a sports injury.
- Bring your child to your family physician if old injuries have not completely healed or continue to cause complaints. If your child is experiencing back, hip, knee or ankle pain, seek professional medical advice.
Dr. Daniel Green is a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Hospital for Special Surgery and director of the Pediatric Sports Program for the Division of Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery. He practices at both the HSS Outpatient Center in Stamford and the hospital’s main campus in New York.