WEDNESDAY, Aug. 17, 2016 (HealthDay News) -- School sports play a major role in many lives, and for players and parents alike it's important to know how to reduce the risk of injuries, a sports medicine doctor says.
"Being aware of the injury potential of your sport and proactively seeking ways to prevent such injuries is critical," said Dr. Jennifer Beck. She is a specialist in pediatric sports medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center.
Beck offers the following tips to help keep players safe and at the top of their game:
Still, injuries can happen, Beck noted in a university news release. If pain or swelling lasts for more than a few days or gets worse, seek medical care.
"And parents, if your athlete suddenly starts taking himself or herself out of the sport, they may have an injury or concern that needs to be checked," Beck advised.
More information
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers sports injury prevention tips.