Parents doubt coaches’ ability to prevent injuries: survey

Washington – Most parents and young athletes doubt the ability of themselves or coaches to recognize symptoms of sports injuries, according to a survey released April 18 by Safe Kids USA and Johnson & Johnson.

The report (.pdf file) indicated only 29 percent of parents are confident that their child’s coach has the skills and knowledge to identify and prevent injuries. About 40 percent of parents expressed confidence in their own abilities.

The survey – a follow-up to one conducted in 2000 – found the number of children sustaining multiple injuries in team sports rose from 15 percent to 21 percent in the past 10 years. The most common types of injuries continue to be sprains, muscle strains, bone or growth plate injuries, and heat-related illnesses.

On a more positive note, the survey found that the majority of children are wearing proper equipment, drinking adequate amounts of fluid, warming up before play and taking safety precautions during practices – a significant improvement over previous survey results.