Female students in the UAE face a significantly higher risk of sports-related injuries compared to boys, doctors report, due to anatomical and hormonal differences. The highest injury rates are observed among those aged 12 to 17, emphasizing the urgent need for improved injury prevention strategies within school sports programmes, reads a Khaleej Times post.
Jena Kiwan, an Egyptian student, fractured her ankle during a basketball game in school. “I slipped while catching a pass and injured my ankle. The school quickly informed my parents and arranged immediate medical care,” she said. After orthopedic evaluation, her recovery involved immobilisation in a cast for six to eight weeks and subsequent physiotherapy.
Doctors stress the importance of tailored safety measures, particularly for girls, who are more prone to injuries like ankle sprains, finger fractures, knee strains, and concussions. Dr. Kiran Sasi, specialist hand surgeon at Prime Hospital, explained that muscle differences and conditions like knock-knees contribute to higher injury risks among female athletes.
Additionally, children with ligament laxity or vitamin D deficiency are at greater risk. Dr. Sherif Ahmed Ban from Burjeel Day Surgery Centre advised regular muscle-strengthening activities and vitamin D monitoring to mitigate these risks. He emphasized that investing in bone health during youth is crucial for lifelong wellness.
Schools are responding with proactive strategies. GEMS Metropole School – Motor City employs a full-time strength and conditioning coach and has incorporated gender-specific training and nutrition plans to meet the unique developmental needs of boys and girls.
Mike Lowery, the school’s Director of Sport, highlighted efforts to prevent age- and growth-related injuries through physical conditioning embedded in the school curriculum. Recovery programs, cold-water therapy units, and seminars on nutrition, sleep, and injury prevention have also been introduced to support student-athletes.
“Our mission is not just to develop elite athletes but to sustain them safely,” said Nav Iqbal, Principal and CEO of GEMS Metropole School – Motor City. “With cutting-edge equipment and holistic recovery labs, we ensure students are physically prepared and protected."
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
