Health

By Ali Chohan, MD
Family Medicine, Putnam County Primary Care

Sports injuries can be a challenging setback for athletes, affecting not only their physical well-being but also their mental resilience. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a “weekend warrior,” understanding common sports injuries and knowing how to take care of them is crucial for a speedy recovery and long-term health.

One of the most prevalent sports injuries is the sprain. Sprains occur when ligaments, the tough bands connecting bones within a joint, are stretched or torn. Ankle sprains are particularly common, often resulting from sudden twists or awkward landings. Immediate treatment involves the R.I.C.E. method: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Rest the injured area, apply ice to reduce swelling, use compression to support the injured area, and elevate it to minimize fluid accumulation.

By Cynthia Holland-Hall, MD, MPH
Adolescent Health, Nationwide Children’s Hospital*

As adolescents move into young adulthood, they take on increasing responsibility for managing their own health care. By teaching your teen the necessary skills over time, this new responsibility will feel less overwhelming, and your teen will be one step closer to “adulting.” Making a medical appointment is a skill that seems simple but can be intimidating, particularly to teens who are “phone call-phobic.”

Start by having your teen make a list of their healthcare providers, including doctors, mental health providers, therapists, dentists, and any others. Encourage or help your teen to add the names, addresses, phone numbers, and web addresses of all providers to their phone contacts so they can easily find them in the future.