Intended for US audience only.
Preparing for Sports1
Preparing for a sports or exercise program will reduce the chance of injury and increase your peace of mind. Here are some steps to consider taking before your child begins a new activity:
Schedule a meeting with your treatment center staff for an evaluation that includes a thorough musculoskeletal exam. Evaluating joint flexibility, ligament stability, muscular strength, and overall health will give the healthcare professional a better sense of which sports are most appropriate.
Schedule a meeting with your child’s school if your child will be participating in school-related athletics. Participants should include the physical education teacher, the coach, the athletic trainer, and the school nurse. Ask someone from your treatment center to join you at this meeting, and ask your treatment center staff about using the Baxter School Toolkit during the meeting to help keep your child active and safe.
Keep a supply of factor concentrate at school so your child can be treated more quickly in case of a bleed. Make sure other people know (nurse, coach, trainer) knows where the factor is kept in case you cannot get to it yourself.
Start a conditioning program before starting a new activity. Being physically fit will strengthen muscles and joints and can help prevent injuries. A conditioning program should focus on the muscles that will be used and the level of endurance that is required for the sport.
Know the early signs of a bleed. Delaying treatment could make a minor bleed more severe.
Treat bleeds immediately and with the appropriate medication. Your physician may recommend factor replacement before certain activities to minimize the risk of bleeding.
Consider the timing of physical activity. If you are on a doctor recommended regimen, consider exercise soon after treatment, when factor level is at its peak.1
Wear properly-fitted equipment and protective gear. Also wear a medical identification necklace or bracelet.
Practice good nutrition and drink enough liquids. See Eating Well.
Know when to refrain from activity. Avoid activity on very hot or cold days or when you are hurt.
References
- Playing It Safe: Bleeding Disorders, Sports, and Exercise. A publication of the National Hemophilia Foundation.
Note: As always, whatever sport you choose to pursue, please check with your physician and/or treatment center before beginning any sports or exercise program.
