Orthopaedic surgeons in Ohio at OAZ support U.S. National Bone and Joint Awareness Week from October 12-20, started by the U.S. Bone and Joint Decade to significantly raise awareness of bone and joint diseases, which affect more than one billion individuals worldwide.

In support of National Bone and Joint Awareness Week, Shriner’s Hospital has posted these tips for parents:

Before kids go outside to play, be sure they:

1. Have appropriate, properly fitting, sports-specific equipment and protection for games and practices, and know how to use it.
2. Do conditioning, strengthening and stretching exercises appropriate to the sport or recreational activity.
3. Learn the proper technique for the movements of the game (pitching, swinging a bat, protecting a goal, etc.).
4. Know to take a break at reasonable intervals.
5. Agree to play by the rules.
6. Will stop playing if they experience pain or feel very tired.
7. Drink plenty of fluids, and know to stay hydrated during and after activity.

Tips to help your child avoid overuse or repetitive motion injuries:

1. Encourage involvement in more than one sport or activity.
2. Choose age-appropriate sports.
3. Make sure children are in the necessary physical condition for a sport or activity.
4. Be sure games and practices include warm-up and cool-down routines.
5. Provide appropriate shoes.
6. Stress the importance of staying hydrated.

More tips parents can use to help keep kids safe:

1. Be sure playing fields are properly maintained and appropriate to the activity.
2. Determine whether there is appropriate adult supervision in place for the program or activity. If supervision appears to be insufficient, especially in an organized activity or sport, ask questions.
3. Be sure equipment is in good condition before allowing your child to use it.

When on a playground:

1. Observe the 5-foot rule: Children under age 5 should not use playground equipment that is taller than 5 feet.
2. Be sure equipment meets applicable safety standards.

If you are suffering from bone and joint diseases and need an orthopaedic surgeon in Ohio, call the Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville at 740-454-3273.

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