Research
        Few ouches: Injuries are relatively uncommon in youth football, according to researchers at the Mayo Clinic.

        Researchers led by orthopedic surgeon Michael J. Stuart followed 915 players ages 9 to 13 who participated on 42 teams in the fall of 1997. During the season, 55 injuries — 6 percent overall — were reported, including concussions, bruises, lacerations and dental, eye and nerve injuries. Most of the injuries were mild: 33 of the total were bruises, and only four were fractures. None required surgery or hospitalization.

        Injury rates did increase with age. The injury rate among fourth-graders was 0.09 percent, climbing to 0.33 percent among eighth-graders.

        Researchers said increased size, speed, strength and aggressiveness might have been factors in the higher injury rates among older players. Body weight analysis showed heavier players had a slightly higher prevalence of injury, but the difference wasn't statistically significant.

        The study, published in this month's edition of Mayo Clinic Proceedings, also showed that running backs were at greatest risk for injury.
       

Tips
        Safer field: Baseball and softball injuries accounted for more than 160,000 doctor visits for children ages 5 to 14 in 2000, according to the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

        Injuries from overusing the arms and shoulders, sliding into base and facial and head injuries were high on the list. The association offers these injury prevention tips:

        • Take time to warm up and stretch before the game.

        • Make sure your equipment fits properly and use the proper mitt for your position. Catchers should wear a helmet, face mask, throat guard, long-model chest protector, protective supporter and shin guards. Make sure shoes are cleated and fit properly.

        • Wear a batting helmet at the plate, while waiting to bat and while running the bases.

        • Pitchers should follow league guidelines for the number of innings they can pitch per week. As a guideline, limit pitches from 80 to 100 per game and from 30 to 40 per practice.

        • Clear the field of glass and other debris and check for holes or other hazards.

        • Learn first aid and have a plan to reach emergency personnel in the event of an injury.

Siting
        Click here: Check out www.dayhiker.com for information, tips and route maps for extreme day hikes (say a 19-mile jaunt through the Tetons). The site includes shopping information and a bulletin board.
       

Calendar
        Event: Crossroad Health Center's annual “Climb for Crossroad” fund-raiser will be May 11 at the center, 5 E. Liberty St. in Over-the-Rhine. After a walk through Liberty Hill, the clinic will sponsor a community celebration. Information: 381-2247.

        Workshop: Physical therapist Sean Apke from Children's Hospital Medical Center will present “Fielding Sports Injuries: First Aid and Safety on the Field” at 7 p.m. May 20 at the Public Library of Cincinnati's Harrison branch. Parents and coaches are invited. Registration: 636-5714 or 369-4442.

        Contact Peggy O'Farrell by phone: 768-8510; fax: 768-8330; e-mail: pofarrell@enquirer.com.

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