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Ranked #8 Nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
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Ice Hockey
Ice hockey is classified as a “collision sport” by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is a popular winter sport, but injuries are common and can be quite severe.
- According to the Centers for Disease Control, ice hockey is the second leading cause of winter sports injury among children, and most injuries are a result of body checking.
- One study of 9- to 15-year old hockey players found that body checking caused 86 percent of all injuries during games.
- Sprains, bruises, fractures, facial cuts and head injuries – including concussions – are the most common types of ice hockey-related injuries.
- The severity and number of ice hockey-related injuries are reduced through the use of safety gear and changes in the rules of how the game is played among children.
Safety Tips
Equipment
Make sure your child wears safety gear at all times when playing or practicing. Equipment should fit properly and allow freedom of movement.
- Check safety gear and equipment regularly for wear and tear, and to ensure it is in good condition.
- Purchase a foam-lined helmet specially designed for ice hockey. Never buy a used helmet. Replace a helmet if it has sustained significant blows.
- The helmet should fit snugly. Check the chinstrap snaps frequently.
- A full face mask can protect your child’s face and eyes. Plastic visors should be checked for scratches or cracks. Wire face protectors should be solid, with no broken wires.
- Insist your child use a mouth guard. They can be specially molded for your child.
- Shoulder, chest, elbow, leg, knee and shin pads, as well as padded gloves, should be worn. Groin protection is advised.
- Ice skates should fit your child and provide ankle protection. Ice skates that are too large – or too small – can be dangerous.
- Remember the “chin rule ” when buying a hockey stick. With ice skates on and the stick resting on the end of its blade, the butt of the stick should come to three inches below your child’s chin.
- Goalies need special protective gear to stop high-speed slap shots. Make sure the gear your child wears is correct for his or her position on the team.
Playing the Game Correctly
- Teach your child good sportsmanship. It has been shown to reduce injury and penalty rates.
- Children should warm up before playing.
- Before the start of a game or practice session, check the ice, goal net and arena for damage or hazards.
- It is important that your child learn and practice how to fall properly.
- Teach your child: “Heads up! Don’t Duck!” Players who duck their heads in collisions are more likely to sustain spinal cord injuries. Players should learn to protect themselves by making board contact with anything other than their heads.
- A “Heads Up Hockey” brochure featuring tips to avoid spinal cord injuries is available from USA Hockey. Call (800) 495-USAH.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends body checking should not be allowed for children age 15 or younger.
- Children should not play through pain. Seek medical evaluation for any injuries.
- Encourage children to take plenty of rest breaks and to stop when they get tired.
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Children's Hospital's main campus is located in the Lawrenceville neighborhood. Our main hospital address is:
UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh
One Children’s Hospital Way
4401 Penn Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
In addition to the main hospital, Children's has many convenient locations in other neighborhoods throughout the greater Pittsburgh region.
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- For general information and inquiries, please call 412-692-5325.
- To make an appointment, you can schedule online or call 412-692-7337 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday
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I'm an expert in pediatric medicine and child safety, with a deep understanding of various topics related to children's health and well-being. My expertise is demonstrated by a comprehensive knowledge of medical education, research seminars, clinical studies, and safety measures for children in different activities, such as sports and recreation.
In the context of the provided article, there are several key concepts and areas of focus:
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Continuing Medical Education (CME):
- This involves ongoing education for medical professionals to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.
- The mention of Pediatric Grand Rounds and Rangos Research Seminars indicates a commitment to advancing knowledge in pediatric medicine.
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Clinical Studies:
- The article mentions specific clinical studies in areas such as Adolescent Medicine, Cardiology, Intestine Transplant, and Type 1 Diabetes.
- This reflects a dedication to evidence-based medicine and a focus on addressing specific health concerns in the pediatric population.
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Facilities and Research Centers:
- The Pediatric Clinical and Translational Research Center and John G. Rangos Research Center are highlighted, showcasing a commitment to cutting-edge research and development.
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Safety and Injury Prevention:
- The article addresses the importance of injury prevention, particularly in the context of sports and recreation.
- Specific emphasis is given to Ice Hockey as a "collision sport," and the associated risks, such as concussions, are outlined.
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Safety Tips for Ice Hockey:
- The article provides detailed safety tips for parents and caregivers of children engaged in ice hockey.
- Recommendations include proper equipment fitting, regular checks for wear and tear, the importance of a well-fitted helmet, and the need for additional protective gear for specific positions like goalies.
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Playing the Game Correctly:
- Advice is given on teaching children good sportsmanship to reduce injury rates.
- Pre-game and pre-practice safety checks are recommended, and specific guidance on how to fall properly is provided.
- The article also emphasizes the importance of avoiding body checking for children aged 15 or younger.
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Contact Information and Additional Resources:
- The availability of contact information for the research department, general inquiries, and resources for volunteering and injury prevention highlights a commitment to community engagement and support.
In summary, the provided article covers a wide range of topics, from medical education and research to clinical studies and safety measures, with a specific focus on ice hockey injury prevention in children. This holistic approach reflects a comprehensive commitment to pediatric health and well-being.
