High School Sports Injuries

Millions of teens across the country play sports in high school. There are many fun options, such as football, cheerleading, soccer, baseball, volleyball, wrestling, swimming, and track and field. Sports are a great way for kids to get exercise and meet new people.

Unfortunately, they also pose an opportunity for kids to get injured. Sports injuries and other school injuries can cause lasting damage to a child, especially a growing teen. An athlete may require surgery and suffer from arthritis later in life.

A teen can suffer from two main types of injuries: acute and overuse injuries. Overuse injuries occur over time and are not necessarily a one-time event. Acute injuries, on the other hand, are caused by sudden trauma. They may include bruises, sprains, broken bones, and concussions. Read on to learn more about high school sports injuries.

Concussion

Concussions are considered mild brain injuries, but they can still be significant. They are caused by a blow to the head and are more common in sports such as football and soccer. Most concussions heal on their own with proper rest.

Sprains and Strains

Many high school athletes have suffered a sprain at some point. This occurs when you overextend or tear a ligament by walking on an uneven surface, jumping awkwardly, or landing on your hand during a fall. Ankles, knees, and wrists are most likely to be sprained. For treatment, use the RICE method: rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

Broken Bones

Fractures occur when the bones come into contact with a hard object or surface. Any bone can get broken during a sporting event, but the most common ones are the foot, ankle, wrist, and hand. This is because sports typically require a significant amount of movement in the hands and feet. If your child breaks a bone, seek emergency care. In most cases, a cast or splint will be used to support the bone. In cases where a bone is broken in multiple places, surgery and metal rods and plates may be required.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Unfortunately, some sports injuries can be catastrophic in nature. Spinal cord injuries are common in sports such as football, cheerleading, and wrestling, and can cause lifelong damage. An athlete who suffers a spinal cord injury may suffer nerve damage, paralysis, mobility issues, chronic pain, and inability to control the bladder and bowels. Medications and surgery may help to some degree. While some patients may regain function after a while, many do not.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Sports injuries and other physical incidents that happen at school can cause long-term effects. If negligence from a coach, teacher, school, or other staff or entity leads to injuries for your child, make sure you understand your legal options.

Moore Law has more than 25 years of experience handling personal injury cases. Our Tampa school injury attorney can assess your case and get you the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call 813-510-5400.

Resource:

orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/high-school-sports-injuries/