Kansas City, Kan., foot and ankle surgeon Dr. James Good says fall sports can lead to sprains, broken bones and other problems -- and injuries should be seen to right away.

"Have a qualified doctor examine the injury," Good says in a statement. "The sooner rehabilitation starts, the sooner we can prevent long-term problems like instability or arthritis, and the sooner your child can get back into competition."

Good, a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, advises having old sprains checked by a doctor to see if they could benefit from wearing a supportive brace.

He also suggests that parents:

-- Have children begin the season with new footwear, as old ones can become uneven, and get the right footwear for the sport.

-- Walk the field, especially when children compete in non-professional settings like public parks and alert coaching officials to dips, divots and holes. Most sports-related ankle sprains are caused by jumping and running on uneven surfaces.

-- Encourage stretching and warm-up exercises.