Links:What does it take for student athletes to stay healthy, compete at their best, and bounce back from injuries when they happen?
A new sports season brings fun and excitement, but it can also mean added pressure and a lot of miles on growing bodies. Whether your child is gearing up for that new season or coming back after recovering from an injury, understanding sports medicine can make a big difference. Pediatric sports medicine physician Dr. Charlene Jones joins us to get clear on what actually keeps student athletes healthy when practice volume spikes and the calendar gets packed with games, lifts, and schoolwork.
Dr. Jones explains why conditioning, sleep, and nutrition are the preseason foundation for performance and injury prevention and shares the warning signs that a teen is ramping up too fast. We also dig into the practical question every family asks: what's the difference between normal soreness and pain that needs a medical visit? Dr. Jones gives simple, real world markers, plus guidance on when athletic trainers, physical therapy, and a broader support system should step in. Finally, we look at return to play after injury, including objective PT benchmarks and the mental side of coming back with confidence after a long rehab.
Whether you're a highly competitive pros-bound athlete or a weekend warrior looking for a rec league to enjoy, school sports are the gateway to a lifetime of health and activity. Get the most out what you love by listening now and making a plan to keep your body in tip-top shape.
Charlene Jones, M.D., M.P.H., brings nearly ten years of clinical experience to her dedicated and enthusiastic practice as a board-certified sports medicine physician and pediatrician. In her current role as a primary care sports medicine attending physician, she makes sure that her pediatric and adult patients can stay as active as they desire while treating any injuries that may arise.
