Missouri Health

Children’s sports injuries can occur during the big game of an organized team sport, or they can happen on the swing set in the backyard. Every athletic activity — from traditional organized sports to free-spirited backyard games — is an important part of children’s lives. Sports activities offer children a release from boundless energy, and a chance for social growth and interaction.

Young athletes, parents and coaches, however, need to watch for signs of injury. And when an injury occurs, they need to know what to do.

Remember R-I-C-E.

Rest
Ice
Compression
Elevation

Rest — take a rest from the athletic activity

Ice and Compression — apply ice for at least the first 48 hours after an injury

Elevation — keep the injured joint elevated higher than the heart

If you suspect serious injury or an injury that requires medical attention, see your physician immediately.