Fast forward to the fast paced times of parents of high school athletes.

When we need answers, we ask our friends first and then check out their answer online to see if they were right J. Here is one of those classic cases. Sitting at Paneras, with 3 other Varsity Parents, munching on a yummy sandwich, the question of where to find a knee brace came up. Just like that.  “Teen” is a high school athlete, teen got injured, teen had surgery,  teen going back to active play on the team.  “Teen” was told he needs a knee brace.

“Is there such thing? Where do I buy one?”

Or, “My chiropractor insists my athlete wears orthotics to avoid future knee problems. Do you think I really need them? Where did you get yours?”

Or, “I was told my athlete should not wear flip flops because they don’t have support and cause foot and ankle problems.  What footwear has the best support?”

Or, etc., etc. ,etc.

When those questions come up we ask the Varsity Parent who has the most experience or (sadly) the most visits to the Emergency Room. We trust our experienced friends to share their well – earned knowledge.  But what if the friends don’t have an answer? Where to go?

Athletic trainers, physical therapists, sports medicine doctors, podiatrists and orthopedic specialists should be able to answer the questions too. Sports medicine docs are experts at diagnosing and treating problems related to athletics. If you are lucky enough to live in a community where you have access to doctors with this specialty, lean on them for help.

When it comes to purchasing medical supplies, it’s always a good idea to:

1 -  check with your insurance company to find out which suppliers they cover,

2-   find out if you need a prescription to get insurance reimbursement  and

3-  what  dollar amount your insurance company reimburses you.

Now, YOU are the “go-to” VP with all the info!

Energy Boost

Two words – PACK SNACKS! Simple foods for fuel like fruit or a granola bar can mean a more productive work-out session. Have them on hand just in case hunger strikes.

Hydration, Hydration

Pack a double-dose of drinks to help stay hydrated. Even if there’s water on the practice field, pack a large bottle of water and a sports drink – even if they’re just for sipping before and after sessions. Try pouring 1/3 of the drink into another container and add ice to the remainder — cold drinks are so much more satisfying.

First Aid

Hopefully there’s a team med kit and your athletic trainer nearby, but it’s never a bad idea to have some band-aids and gauze handy for minor scrapes and blisters. While you’re at it, pack some sunscreen for those sunny days.

Equipment “Extras”

Whatever the sport requires, tote along extra equipment. Mouth guards, shin guards, chin straps, an extra pair of shorts, socks and a t-shirt will all come in handy. For those of you sensitive to smell, toss in some odor-eating dryer sheets or some Febreeze spray.