10/24/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/24/2024 07:33
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Overuse injuries can occur at all ages. But because kids are still growing, they're at a greater risk for these types of injuries, and may need a pediatric expert to ensure they heal properly.
Nick Giampetruzzi, PT, MPT, Connecticut Children's lead sports physical therapist, explains what parents and young athletes should know.
An overuse injury is caused by repeated stress of a muscle group or joint (rather than a one-time injury such as a collision or fall).
There are lots of different types of overuse injuries, affecting everything from bones to muscles to tendons and ligaments. They tend to show up first as mild pain or discomfort, and gradually get worse over time.
Kids' growth plates are still open - typically, until around age 15 for girls, and age 17 for boys. These growth plates are made of cartilage, which is weaker and more susceptible to injury than mature bone. During this time, their muscles, tendons and bones may also be growing at different rates, which can cause microtrauma, leading to irritation, inflammation and pain.
When overuse injuries are caught and treated early, they usually aren't a big deal. But if your child plays through the pain, they can create long-term problems. If an overuse injury becomes severe and isn't treated properly, it can even damage your child's growth plate and impact their potential bone growth.
> Related:The 7 Rules of Sports Injury Prevention for Young Athletes
Overuse injuries can be the result of:
> Related: Return to Play Resources for Athletes
Keep in mind that most overuse injuries begin as mild discomfort during specific activities or movements. If your child is complaining of pain, soreness, ache, tenderness, tightness or swelling, they may have an overuse injury.
Overuse injuries can occur anywhere in the body, and your child might notice symptoms during any of the following activities.
Here are the 10 most common overuse injuries in kids, including specific symptoms and sports.
> Find Connecticut Children's sports medicine services near you
Make sure your child knows to stop playing if they feel pain, and talks to you and their coach.
By noticing overuse injuries early, and seeking medical advice if necessary, young athletes can often get back in the game after just a short rest or some adjustments to their activity - and avoid more serious injury, which could take them out for an entire season or more.
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