Ask The Coach Guidance for those lost in sports

Dear Coach: I'm 12, and I just grew four inches in three months.
Now I have constant pain in my legs, and my coordination is
shot. I can't sink a basket, and I feel as if I'm constantly
stumbling down the court. What can I do?
GROWING PAINFULLY

Dear Growing: The pains associated with the natural growth
process can last a few weeks or even a few months. "Bones can
grow very quickly in comparison to soft tissues, muscles and
tendons," says Richard Parker, an osteopathic specialist and team
doctor at San Diego State. Parker suggests regular stretching and
strengthening exercises to lessen the pain. "Try calisthenics,"
says Parker. "Don't use weights." Once the discomfort subsides,
your coordination should return, but keep in mind that you could
have growing pains again in the future. "The growing process ends
at age 16 to 18," says Parker. "Until then, these types of pains
can happen anytime."

Dear Coach: I'm 15, and I've been a catcher since age eight. Will
I have knee problems in the future?
WORRIED BACKSTOP

Dear Worried: Although repeated squatting can result in permanent
damage to your knees, there are ways to prevent long-term
trouble. "Good exercise and frequent icing are crucial," says
Vijay Vad, who practices sports medicine at New York City's
Hospital for Special Surgery. "Strengthening your quadriceps is
very important, because if you don't have enough strength in your
upper legs, you'll put too much pressure on your knees.
Consequently, the kneecaps won't glide properly, increasing the
risk of future ills." Icing soothes muscle inflammation around
the kneecaps. Says Vad, "All you need is 15 minutes of icing
after a game."

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