Health Tip: Children Who Play Sports

Potential risks to keep in mind

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(HealthDay News) -- Scholastic sports are a great way for children to get exercise and stay healthy. But young athletes also are at greater risk of injury to their growing bodies.

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Here are potential risks to keep in mind when your child is playing a sport, courtesy of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons:

• Growing bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons are more susceptible to injury than those of adults.
• Growth plates leave weak areas exposed that can cause long-term damage.
• Children in the same age group may vary greatly in size and ability, which can lead to injuries in contact sports.
• Competitive children may try to push themselves to play longer and harder than their bodies can physically handle.