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This Page About Ice Hockey Safety |
Ice Hockey SafetyRisks And Types Of InjuryEach year, almost 67,000 hockey-related injuries to youths under age 15 are treated in hospitals, doctors' offices, clinics, ambulatory surgery centers and hospital emergency rooms. The total cost of these hockey-related injuries was more than $928 million in 2003. Includes medical, legal and liability, work loss and pain and suffering costs.
![]() Safety gear and changes in the rules of play have significantly reduced both the number and severity of injuries:
Most youth leagues and some high school leagues currently require these safety measures. Other leagues recommend these measures, but are lax on enforcement. A much greater reduction in injuries could be achieved if all amateur - and professional - leagues mandated these safety practices. Tips for Preventing Ice Hockey InjuriesWhile injuries are common and can be severe, many can be prevented if players wear all recommended safety equipment and avoid moves like body checking that increase the risk of injury. To help your child avoid injury while playing ice hockey, follow these safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, USA Hockey, and other sports and health organizations: Get a physical. Before your child starts a training program or plays competitive ice hockey, he should get a complete physical exam. Your pediatrician can help assess any special injury risks your child may have. Make sure your child wears all the required safety gear every time he or she plays and practices. All youth, high school, and college ice hockey leagues require players to wear the following gear:
Some leagues recommend neck guards. All equipment should be certified by the HECC (Hockey Equipment Certification Council), the CSA (Canadian Standards Association), or the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials). Make sure your child's equipment fits properly. The helmet should fit snugly with a strap that gently cradles the chin when it's fastened. Insist that your child warm up and stretch before playing. Exercises that strengthen the neck and increase flexibility may help prevent injuries. Teach your child not to play through pain. If your child gets injured, see your doctor. Follow all the doctor's orders for recovery, and get the doctor's OK before your child returns to play. Make sure first aid is available at all games and practices. And, insist that the rink is equipped with Automated External Defibrillators (AED) Talk to and watch your child's coach. Coaches should:
Teach your child to avoid head contact with the boards or other players. Serious head and neck injuries can occur from this kind of contact. Above all, keep ice hockey fun. Putting too much focus on winning can make your child push too hard and risk injury. Continue to learn more about Ice hockey, please visit Moms Team.
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