Guest blogger pediatrician Dr. Gwenn says when it comes to baseball, face masks should be mandatory.

The pros make sliding into base look so easy, don't they? Yet, they do get injured. Have you ever wondered about the injury rate in youth baseball? A new study in Pediatrics helps answer that question and points out some safety traps you may not have considered with American's favorite pastime.

In the study, three areas were injured the most: ankles, shoulders and the head/face area. The baseball accidents accounting for the majority of the injuries included sliding into base or being hit by the ball or bat.
If you look at how our kids play ball, the head and face are not well-protected. Given how often those injuries require surgery, and often injure the dental areas and cause other issues, this is a big concern to us in the medical world. Shoulder and ankle injuries are usually not as severe in this way.

So, as the study authors conclude, we need to do a better job protecting the faces of the half-million kids playing baseball, period. Equipment such as facial shields, mouth guards, and eye protection should be mandatory. While the study was focused on high school play, I feel strongly these safety measures should be taken in little league, as well. High school competitiveness is a risk factor for injury, but so is inexperience and lack of skill in younger players.

Our kids need their faces for their entire lives. A face shield seems like a small price to pay to ensure that goal. Talk to your kids' coach or little league director about this important issue.

For more from Dr. Gwenn, click here.