The AAFP recommends that family physicians counsel patients to use appropriate protective equipment for recreational and competitive sports activities, but should be aware of the proliferation of protective equipment, add-ons, or accessories, that may not have been rigorously tested, may not actually reduce the risk of injury, or may fundamentally alter the purpose or function of existing protective equipment. This equipment may include, but is not limited to, certified flotation devices, eye protection, helmets, mouth guards, knee and elbow pads, wrist protection and other equipment as needed to protect against injury. Whenever practical, family physicians should direct patients (or their parents) to look for National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) certification on protective equipment.
The AAFP also recommends that facilities or groups offering recreational or competitive sports activities for youth make available low-cost protective equipment.
(2000) (September 2024 COD)