Stay injury-free this summer

Summer is finally here! Longer days and school vacation mean sports camps, beach trips, baseball games, swimming lessons and all the other outdoor stuff we wait for all year. While it’s a great time for families to be outside together and soak up some sunshine (don't forget sunscreen!), sports-related injuries are a threat. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons reports that every year, over 3.5 million kids under 15 suffer some type of sports-related injury. Adults are at risk, too.

So here are some tips to keep you and your family safe this summer:

Everyone is different: Children and teenagers do not all develop at the same pace, which explains why the other 12-year-olds at your son's lacrosse camp might look older than he does. That might sound obvious but it is important to remember. Why? Because one child's bones and ligaments may be stronger than another child's of the same age because of differing rates of development. So it’s important to know your own child's strengths and limits to prevent any pulled or strained muscles. If possible, try to pick a summer team or activity where everyone has the same skill level.

Keep it fun: Playing sports and being outside are meant to be fun but when children are pushed beyond their limit, injuries can happen. Competition can be a good thing but no one wants to run around when it hurts to. Parents, you can help your children succeed on and off the playing field by focusing on their development, not on how many games are being won or lost. Encourage your child to take breaks when needed.

Rest and stretch: Everyone can benefit from resting overworked muscles and stretching before and after a rigorous workout. The more tired your body, the more likely you are to get hurt. Doctors call it an "overuse injury" and it is one of the most common sports-related injuries out there. Make sure you give your body a break every few days. If you are going to work out or play sports, be sure to warm up your muscles so they’re not as rigid and prone to injury.

Bottom line: Listen to your body to stay healthy and make the most of your summer!

Be sure to tune in to Dr. Sanjay Gupta every weekend on HOUSE CALL. You'll find the answers to your medical questions Saturday and Sunday at 7:30 a.m. ET on CNN.