A Providence family doctor shares essential guidance for parents this autumn, covering everything from overtraining to concussions
The start of a new school year means new friends, new teams and for many families, a familiar question: how do you keep a young athlete healthy throughout a busy season?
Dr. Roger Lee, a family and sports medicine physician at Providence Medical Group in Marysville, says the injuries he sees most often are not the result of a single bad moment but of patterns that build quietly over time.
“Sprains and concussions are the most common injuries we see,” Dr. Lee says. “But a lot of what leads to those injuries starts before the season even begins.”
Variety over specialization
A central concern for Dr. Lee is single-sport specialization. Without adequate, structured rest, young athletes who train in one sport continuously fail to give their bodies the necessary time to recover.
He recommends a variety of activities and at least three months off after any season ends. Back-to-back seasons are among the patterns most likely to produce overuse injuries.
Nutrition matters too. Endurance athletes need a balanced mix of carbohydrates and protein, with extra carbohydrates before events.
Athletes who focus on strength often require additional protein in their diet, but Dr. Lee emphasizes that carbohydrates are vital for balanced nutrition across every sport.
When to see a doctor
Standard muscle tightness typically clears up in a day with rest and ice, whereas pain that worsens with movement or over time indicates it’s time to consult a doctor.
Urgent care is usually the best option for issues like swelling, rolled ankles, or difficulty walking. However, if a severe concussion is suspected, an emergency room visit is recommended.
Signs of a concussion include headaches, fatigue, balance issues, sleep disruptions, confusion, nausea and difficulty focusing.
Dr. Lee also encourages families to book pre-participation physicals at least two weeks before the first practice.
Beyond the physical
Sports that involve close contact, like wrestling, carry an added risk of skin infections such as ringworm or impetigo. He advises athletes to practice daily hygiene, never share towels and stay home if they have a rash or are sick.
For female athletes, Dr. Lee flags an additional concern.
“If a previously regular menstrual cycle becomes irregular, it can be an early sign of overtraining,” he says. “That warrants a closer look at training load and nutrition.”
Staying up to date on vaccinations, such as getting an annual flu shot prior to the season, offers an easy way to help safeguard the entire team.
Dr. Lee also emphasizes that caring for an athlete’s mental health is just as critical as supporting their physical well-being.
Signs like anxiety, depression, or an unexpected decline in athletic performance may indicate that a young athlete is facing challenges and could benefit from additional support.
To learn more or find a Providence family medicine physician near you visit providence.org. Follow Providence Regional Medical Center Everett on Facebook @ProvidenceSwedishNorth.
