Medical City Healthcare | Take Care | Spring 2019

With so many youth athletes playing club sports, it’s no wonder overuse injuries are becoming more common. Keith Meister, MD, Head Team Physician for the Texas Rangers and Medical City Healthcare orthopedic surgeon , treats many youth athletes with serious injuries as a result of playing too much, too hard. He offers a few tips to help keep young athletes healthy. Dr. Meister says that in order to perform at their best during the season, athletes should: > > Maintain good physical fitness during the off-season. General conditioning in addition to sport-specific workouts Avoid overuse injuries Summer sports and fitness are great for helping kids stay in shape, make new friends and learn the value of teamwork. But did you know that it’s important for your child to get a sports physical, ideally six to eight weeks before the season starts, even if it isn’t required? Here’s why. Off to a safe start A sports physical is a chance for a doctor to make sure it’s safe for your child to begin a new season, sport or activity. The doctor will look for any health problems that could possibly be a danger during a game or practice. If something is found, it can be treated or managed so your child doesn’t have to sit on the sidelines. The doctor can also: > > Help your child play safely with a known health problem. For instance, a child with asthma may need a change in medicine while playing a sport that requires lots of running. > > Talk to your child about how to avoid sports injuries and how to steer clear of overuse and overtraining injuries. > > Discuss nutritional needs. Getting the right amount of calories and eating healthy are important. SPORTS PHYSICALS ARE JUST $20 at 30-plus North Texas CareNow Urgent Care locations through Aug. 31. Visit CareNow.com or start a Web Check-In®at WCI.CareNow.com . G a m e o n ! A sports physical can help your child get ready to play 6