The start of a new school year is just around the corner. And with so much to prepare, from buying school supplies to getting back into a routine, avoiding orthopedic injuries may not be the first thing on the to-do list.
Whether your child is beginning kindergarten or high school, you may be purchasing new footwear and backpack for them. When looking for shoes for your child or adolescent, in general, I recommend flat shoes with a thick sole, some amount of arch support and are slightly wider than the foot. For the most part, the most comfortable and stable shoes will always be sneakers. Everyone's feet are slightly different, so it may take some trial and error to find the best shoes for your child.
When it comes to student athletes, the start of the academic year means an increased risk of injury regardless of the sport being played. Concussions are, unfortunately, a common injury among student athletes. The importance of proper prevention strategies -- such as using a helmet and mouthguard, especially in football -- cannot be overstressed. Repeated concussions can have a profound impact on a student athlete, not just when it comes to their ability to participate in sports but also their focus in academic studies.