The Palm Beach Post’s “Ask the Expert” column features James B. Carr II, MD, sports medicine surgeon at HSS Florida, discussing how to prevent injuries in youth athletes.

Dr. Carr explains that participating in youth sports is an essential part of childhood for many families as there are many positive benefits for children including increased self-esteem, improved physical fitness and character building.

He shares some tips to minimize the risk of injury including encouraging cross-training, playing on one team at a time, utilizing age-appropriate techniques and getting help early when you do get injured.

This appeared in the print edition on January 3, 2021.