The risk of heat-related illnesses is a big concern as kids begin preseason training for outdoor sports like cross country, football and soccer. Knowing who is most at risk and how to prevent and recognize heat-related illness are critical steps to any summer sport training program. “Heat-related illnesses can be very serious. What may first […]
3 rules this athletic trainer stands by to keep young athletes in the game
In today’s youth sports culture, where the focus is on getting better, stronger, faster to play at higher and higher levels, Akron Children’s lead athletic trainer Kyle Harper says it’s easy to lose sight of what’s best for your student-athlete. As an athletic trainer at Firestone CLC and mom of 3, Kyle is constantly confronted […]
Dr. Michael Forbes shares his vision for academics and pediatric research at Akron Children’s
As Akron Children’s chief academic officer and the William H. and Rebecca D. Considine Endowed Chair for Pediatric Research, Dr. Michael Forbes spends a lot of time thinking about our obligation to the children we serve. “Akron Children’s is responsible for the public health of children. That is the ultimate report card of the effectiveness […]
Family entrusts care of 19 year old to Akron Children’s after dirt bike accident
Living in rural New Waterford, Ohio, 19-year-old Joey Hawkins grew up fishing, hunting, motocross racing and dirt biking. “Joey prefers activities that give me heart palpitations and usually end up with cuts, bruises or stitches,” joked his mom, Angie. “He’s been a daredevil since the age of 3.” In November 2022, Joey and some friends […]
Should student athletes take supplements?
Many teens drawn to performance-enhancing supplements think because they’re sold in stores, they must be safe and effective. But, Dr. Christopher Liebig, a sports medicine physician at Akron Children’s, says most of it’s false advertising aimed at selling products. “There’s little to no proof they will make you bigger, stronger or faster. They’re not regulated, […]
Do young athletes need sports or energy drinks?
Sports and energy drinks fueled with caffeine are commonly consumed by kids and teens. While sports drinks, which contain carbohydrates and electrolytes (potassium and sodium), were invented to keep athletes hydrated and enhance their performance, research shows they are unnecessary for kids engaged in routine or play-based physical activity. “Most experts agree that the length […]