Rec Sports
DeTar cites fall sports as cause for spike in emergency visits
DeTar cites fall sports as cause for spike in emergency visits
Published 5:15 am Saturday, October 25, 2025
DeTar Healthcare System is reporting a seasonal increase in emergency department visits related to sports injuries.
Emergency and orthopedic teams are treating a range of injuries, including sprains, strains, fractures, and concussions, most commonly affecting the knees, ankles, and shoulders.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sports and recreational activities account for nearly 20 percent of all injury-related emergency department visits among children and adolescents in the U.S. In Texas, youth participation in sports is widespread, with more than 800,000 students competing in UIL-sanctioned activities each year—a number that increases the likelihood of injury during the competitive fall season.
“Fall is an exciting season for athletes, but it’s also a time we see a spike in injuries that are often preventable,” said Dr. Todd Francis, ER physician at DeTar Hospital Navarro. “We commonly treat ankle sprains, ACL injuries, and shoulder dislocations—many of which occur due to poor technique, lack of warm-up, or not using the right protective gear.”
Most fall sports injuries occur during practice, not just during games. Football and soccer top the list for contact-related injuries, while sports like cross-country can lead to overuse injuries if training is not properly managed.
Stephanie Schuckenbrock, Director of Orthopedics at DeTar Healthcare System, says preparation and early intervention are key to injury prevention.
“If there’s any concern about a concussion—things like dizziness, nausea, or confusion—it’s critical that the athlete stop playing and be evaluated,” Schuckenbrock said. “A second impact can be far more dangerous and delay recovery significantly.”
Schuckenbrock also urges parents and coaches to take proactive steps to ensure athlete safety, including proper stretching, staying hydrated, and using sport-specific protective equipment.
“Being proactive with injury prevention helps keep our kids playing the sports they love—safely,” she added.
Both Schuckenbrock and Dr. Francis stress the importance of recognizing and addressing injuries early. Warning signs such as persistent swelling, inability to bear weight, limited range of motion, or head injury symptoms should be evaluated promptly by a medical professional.
Shiner football head coach Daniel Boedeker said that a good strength and conditioning program is the foundation for reducing the risk of injury. Players also work hand-in-hand with the training staff to communicate what ailments they may have. When it comes to concussions, players are sent into concussion protocol immediately if they have any concussion-like symptoms.
“You hate to see kids get hurt, but when they do, it’s our job as coaches to do what’s best for the long-term health of the student-athlete,” coach Boedeker said.
Goliad volleyball coach Jess Odem also expressed the importance of strength and conditioning as a preventative measure to protect athletes from more severe injuries.
“The very first practice of the year back in August, there was a player that suffered a sprained ankle. As bad as it could have been, it wasn’t terrible. I think all our girls work really hard in that weight room to make sure that their bodies are ready for whatever comes their way,” coach Odem said.