Hockey is more than just a game for many young athletes—it’s a passion, a community, and a pathway to lifelong fitness and friendships. However, as thrilling as the sport can be, the physical demands of hockey also put players at risk for injuries, especially if they’ve had previous injuries or are developing poor movement patterns. This risk can be even more significant for young hockey players, as their bodies are still growing and developing.
Injury prevention is crucial not only for keeping young athletes on the ice but, also for ensuring their long-term health and success. In this post, we’ll explore why injury prevention should be a priority for hockey players aged 12-15, how movement screening can make a difference, and how you can help your hockey player stay strong and injury-free.
Why Injury Prevention Matters for Young Hockey Players
Hockey is a fast-paced, high-contact sport that requires agility, strength, and quick reflexes. These demands can increase the risk of injuries, especially in younger players who may still develop their coordination and strength. Common injuries in hockey include sprains, strains, knee injuries, and concussions. For players, the risk of knee injuries, such as ACL tears, can be particularly high.
Injury prevention is not just about avoiding a trip to the emergency room; it’s about ensuring that young athletes can continue to play the sport they love without interruption. Repeated injuries can lead to chronic pain, decreased performance, and even a premature end to a promising hockey career. By focusing on injury prevention, we can help young players stay healthy, confident, and competitive.
The Role of FMS Screening in Preventing Injuries
One of the most effective ways to prevent injuries is through Functional Movement Screening (FMS). These screenings assess players' movement patterns, identify weaknesses or imbalances, and provide a comprehensive picture of their overall movement quality.
How Does It Work?
During a FMS screen, each athlete is assessed using a series of movement tests. These tests evaluate how well they move, identifying areas where their form might be putting unnecessary strain on muscles and joints. The screening results in a score, with 1 being poor and 3 being good, up to a total of 21 points. This score gives both the athlete and their coaches a clear idea of where improvements are needed.
Based on the results, a personalized exercise program is created. This program focuses on correcting the identified issues, improving strength and coordination, and helping the athlete move more efficiently. By addressing these problems early on, we can significantly reduce the risk of future injuries.
Long-Term Benefits of Early Intervention
Early intervention through PT/FMS screening offers long-term benefits that go beyond injury prevention. Proper movement patterns and balanced strength help preserve joint health, decrease wear and tear, and reduce the likelihood of developing conditions like arthritis later in life. While these may not be immediate concerns for a 15-year-old, developing good habits now sets the foundation for a healthy, active future.
In addition to preventing injuries, the personalized exercise programs resulting from PT/FMS screening can also enhance athletic performance. Athletes who move more efficiently are often faster, stronger, and more powerful. This not only helps them avoid injuries but also improves their overall game performance, giving them an edge on the ice.
Success Stories: Making a Difference
While it’s difficult to measure how many injuries have been prevented through FMS screening, the feedback from athletes and parents has been overwhelmingly positive. Many report that after completing their 6-8 week personalized exercise program, their pain has resolved, and they feel more confident and capable on the ice.
One of the key successes of the program is how it helps athletes develop better overall movement. When all the muscles are doing their job, athletes move like a well-trained team, synchronized and efficient. This not only reduces the strain on individual muscles and joints but also improves the athlete’s overall coordination and performance.
Getting Started: How to Protect Your Hockey Player
If you’re a parent or coach of a young female hockey player, consider incorporating PT/FMS screening into your routine. Early intervention can make a significant difference in preventing injuries and improving performance. Our program is designed to provide a clear, actionable plan for keeping your athlete strong and healthy.
Book a Free Discovery Visit to help you understand how our FMS screening can benefit your player. This visit includes a discussion of how we can help address any movement issues or previous injuries.
Conclusion
Injury prevention is a critical aspect of sports, especially for young athletes who are still developing their skills and strength. By focusing on early intervention and proper movement patterns, we can help young female hockey players avoid injuries, improve their performance, and enjoy a long, successful hockey career. Don’t wait for an injury to happen—take proactive steps now to keep your athlete strong, healthy, and ready to face any challenge on the ice.
Want to learn more? Visit our FMS webpage for FAQs, videos, detailed information about our screening process, and testimonials from other athletes and parents who have benefited from the program. Get all the insights you need to make the best decision for your hockey player’s health and future.
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