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.
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.
The controversy over the use of prohormone nutritional supplementation in humans (andro) has continued since the investigations of popular athletes. A recent study in the American College of Sports Medicine found, while these supplements are widely marketed, the scientific data supporting the effectiveness is lacking.
Last week we presented the definition, cause and symptoms of hamstring strains while this week will be dedicated to diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
Hamstring strains are very common in almost all sports. Moreover, participating in spring sports in the cool temperatures of NEPA presents additional challenges. New research shows that these injuries can be prevented by following a specifically designed intensive training program.
A few weeks ago, I received a request from a concerned mother of a local high school football player. Her son is spending the winter and spring weight training for next football season. He has been using protein shakes and wants to use creatine supplements to improve his size and strength. His mother is concerned and asked if I would address the use of creatine in strength training and make recommendations based on the literature.
On a very frequent basis, parents of young athletes ask when it is safe for their children to participate in weight training.
no discussion regarding the health and wellness of college students would be complete and thorough without addressing what health care and university experts consider the two most dangerous behaviors on college campuses across the nation: binge drinking and unprotected sexual activity.
To prevent serious health problems in college, parents must share their experience and discuss their values regarding sexual activity and alcohol consumption with children before they leave home to live independently in college.
Last week we discussed common illnesses among college students, how to manage and when to seek professional help. Below you will find a list of symptoms that should never be ignored.
