Concussion Often Hits Elementary School Kids, Too

MONDAY, June 10, 2019 -- Concussions aren't only a concern for high school and college athletes -- they're also a leading injury risk for kids as young as age 5 who play sports.

That's the upshot of a new study of injury risk among 1,500 elementary school athletes in one Florida county. For the study, University of South Florida researchers focused on 5- to 11-year-olds who play recreational football, soccer and baseball/softball.

Where's the Best Place for Your Child's Sports Physical Exam?

TUESDAY, May 21, 2019 -- Student athletes usually need a sports physical. And the best place for that exam is at their primary care doctor's office, according to updated guidelines from leading U.S. medical experts.

"Whenever possible, the sports physical should be performed in the primary care physician's office, the same place where the child receives immunizations and other health care," said Dr. David Bernhardt, co-author of the new Preparticipation Physical Evaluation 5th Edition.

Young Athletes Need to Be Sidelined After Bout of Mono

SUNDAY, April 14, 2019 -- Young sports buffs recovering from mononucleosis may be itching to return to the game they love. But one expert says the risk of suffering a burst spleen during play means staying on the sideline longer than some would like.

Along with extreme fatigue, sore throat, fever and swollen glands, "mono" causes spleen enlargement. That can be dangerous for athletes because the impacts and pressure on the abdomen that occur during many sports can cause the spleen to burst.

Why Kids Should Play More Than One Sport

FRIDAY, April 26, 2019 -- Playing team sports is a great way to teach kids life lessons about leadership, teamwork and how to socialize with peers. Sports are also a great way to build self-esteem and gain physical skills. Most important, they're fun.

But too many -- nearly three-quarters of young athletes -- are specializing in just one activity as early as 7 years old, even playing on numerous league-level teams.