The right mix of practice and performance training can help keep young athletes in the game, according to Henry B. Ellis, M.D., pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Scottish Rite for Children Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center in Frisco, Texas.
During a recent Texas Orthopaedic Association discussion on sports medicine, orthopedic experts from across Texas came together to provide educational resources and practical guidance for athletes, parents and coaches. Ellis shared two key strategies for helping young athletes reduce their risk of injury and return to play safely.
The first strategy, Ellis said, is following a 70/30 approach to training.
“About 70% of training should be focused on your sport, while the other 30% should be dedicated to performance and strength training,” Ellis said. “Preparing your body to play is an important part of staying healthy and performing your best.”
His second piece of advice focused on returning to play after an injury.
“Returning to play is not black and white,” Ellis said. “It’s not simply receiving a note that says you’re cleared. It’s a gray area that requires a progressive return to sport to reduce the risk of another injury.”
Rather than viewing medical clearance as the finish line, Ellis emphasized the importance of gradually increasing activity while monitoring how an athlete responds before returning to their previous level of play.
Scottish Rite’s multidisciplinary sports medicine team supports young athletes through every stage of recovery, combining orthopedic care, rehabilitation, performance training and return-to-play guidance to help patients safely return to the sports they love.
Athletes who want personalized guidance on applying these principles can schedule a movement assessment at Scottish Rite for Children Orthopedic and Sports Medicine in Frisco. The evaluation assesses movement, strength and biomechanics and provides individualized recommendations to help athletes learn where to focus their training to improve performance and reduce their risk of injury and stay in the game. To schedule an appointment, call 469-515-7160.
