Youth Athletes and Sport Specialization with Dr. Shane McWhirter, MD.

In this episode, we are delighted to have our first guest on the podcast. Dr. Shane McWhirter MD (Wayzata Children’s Clinic - Minnetonka and Spring Park) shares his helpful insight as a pediatric specialist on what to watch out for in youth athletes, and recommendations to keep the younger population from doing too much too quick. We hope you enjoy, and as always, Keep It Moving! Please subscribe if you enjoy what we bring to the podcasts, and feedback is always appreciated. Email us at [email protected] or reach out to Dr. Andrew Eccles @loonstatephysio on Instagram and Twitter for topics you want to hear about or general feedback. Dr. McWhirter's top tips for how families should approach youth sports and sport specialization Don’t specialize too early and consider starting organized sports at around 6 years old Focus on the FUN in competitive sports Come in at least 6 weeks before the start of the season for a pre-sports physical Younger athletes should first be focused on safe mechanics in sports Make sure to warm up and cool down Allow your child at least 1-2 days off from organized sports One single sport with one single team per season 3 months off of the sport per year (can be split up) Allow and encourage non-sport condition and cross training Keep an eye on what your children are putting in their bodies (supplements, diet, etc.) Do your research on any programs you are signing up for, many are unregulated