Be Valiant

Ep. 43 Episode 22 - Dr. Eric Dean: Multi-Sport, Time Off, and Smart Prevention: A Sports Doctor’s Playbook

In this episode of Be Valiant, Todd Merkow sits down with Dr. Erik Dean, Medical Director for Sports Medicine at HonorHealth and a former University of Arizona Division I football player, for a no-fluff conversation every sports parent needs to hear.

Dr. Dean breaks down what he's seen change over 25 years treating athletes—especially the sharp rise in early specialization, overuse injuries, and major surgeries showing up at younger and younger ages. They dig into why multi-sport participation matters, how fatigue + growth spurts create real injury risk, and what parents should do when pain shows up in that critical "open growth plate" window.

You'll also hear Dr. Dean's perspective as a girl dad and former youth coach, including how to keep sports fun, protect kids from burnout, and why even pro athletes take real off seasons (for a reason). The episode closes with rapid-fire questions on red flags, the most common injuries he sees, and what "Be Valiant" means from a team doctor's point of view.

Host: Todd Merkow - CEO & Founder, Valiant Sports Society

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Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance related to your or your child's health. Never delay seeking help because of something you heard on this show.