Parents, educators and community leaders encourage kids to participate in sports and outdoor activities, especially in light of rising obesity rates among American children. While more kids are flocking to organized sports and finding outlets for their energy outside, the number of injuries also is on the rise, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Protective gear such as kneepads play an important role in preventing injuries.
Effects
A number of factors lead to injuries that can be prevented with protective gear. Improper training and lack of experienced coaches increases the odds kids will fall or develop incorrect techniques that lead to accidents. According to the University of Michigan Health System, the effects of strenuous physical activity take a toll on developing bones that need additional protection.
Types
Football and baseball players learn about safety equipment early in their training and schools ensure kids wear the gear when playing. Most parents are well-versed in the dangers of head trauma caused by not wearing helmets when cycling and insist kids don the headgear. Kneepads and elbow pads however are not as prevalent and leave kids vulnerable to accidents that could damage their growing bones. Activities that require kneepads include skateboarding, inline skating and riding a scooter. Kids involved in extreme sports also should be comfortable in kneepads they wear every time they compete or practice.
Features
For effective protection, kneepads should be adjustable so kids can tighten them up so they won't fall during movement, when the kids need them most. Kneepads ideally have a hard shell protective cover over impact-resistant inner padding to absorb the shock of a hard surface. The padding should be sufficient to protect the knee caps which are the most susceptible to cracks that can lead to chronic arthritis and other orthopaedic complication as the kids age.
Options
Parents and coaches need to make the protective equipment easy for kids to use while demanding they wear the gear. Open-backed kneepads provide two straps that typically attach with Velcro behind the knees. Kids often prefer the ease offered by open-backed kneepads because they don't have to remove their skates or shoes to slide the kneepads on and off. The straps also adjust as the kneepads wear over time. Kneepads worn regularly should be replaced as needed, especially if they are washed. Washing usually reduces the effectiveness of the padding and outer fabric layers, causing them to become loose and unsafe.
Member Comments