Since my column on the prevention of heat stroke in football practice ran two weeks ago, I have received several calls and emails requesting more information about safety tips in youth football. In response, this column is written to raise the level of consciousness and to educate coaches, players and parents about the importance of injury prevention in young play
According to the PIAA, August 16th is the 1st day of full uniform and contact football practice sessions in Pennsylvania. Several parents have urged me to write a column on the prevention of heatstroke. I feel it is a critical issue and worthy topic to repeat regularly to raise the level of consciousness and prevent injury or death.
It is reported that Americans spend 90% of their lives indoors and that number increases with age. The truth of the matter is the risk of being one with nature is far less than the ill effects of a life stuck indoors. Please consider the following benefits of spending time outdoors.
If you, like me, have been running for many years, trail running can help you rediscover why you love to run. It is beautiful, peaceful, natural and unique. It is fun to get in touch with your inner child as you run in the woods and get muddy. Trail running makes running fun!
Because of the possibility of the life-threatening, and at best life-altering, consequences of dehydration, prevention is best defense against dehydration. Consider some of the following practical tips to promote optimal hydration.
Fluid balance is vital for body functions. If you are elderly or care for the elderly, understand that this may be one problem that you can often control. It is important for you to understand the many conditions complicated by dehydration.
Summer heat is here and the risk of dehydration continues for one specific group, the elderly. Age, diet, illness and medications are some of the many reasons why elders suffer from dehydration not only in the summer heat, but year round.
Jet lag is considered to be a type of sleep disorder associated with long distance travel between time zones. When traveling between time zones, the natural sleep/wake cycle (circadian rhythm) of our body is disrupted by the change in pattern in daylight. It can be a much more difficult recovery than a few hours sleep and can ruin an active vacation.
Spring has arrived and baseball season is around the corner. It is hard to believe that a healthy young little leaguer has to worry about injuries. They seem so flexible, agile, strong, and fast. Unfortunately, because their bones are not fully developed, they are vulnerable to “Little League Elbow.”
Youth baseball can be a very rewarding experience for young participants, parents and coaches. However, most coaches, without a medical background or additional training, may not have the skill and knowledge to provide a healthy and safe environment.
