Most Common Injuries in Young Athletes

Mar 8, 2021

Most Common Injuries for Young AthletesChildhood is a time for fun and play, and many children are getting involved in sports like baseball, dance, and football at early ages. When it comes to taking care of your young athlete, some scrapes and bruises are to be expected. But what about injuries that happen while participating in their favorite activity? Most injuries in young athletes that go beyond a few scrapes or bruises tend to affect their growing musculoskeletal system. You might find yourself searching for a “chiropractor near me” for a more natural, non-invasive approach to taking care of your young athlete.

How Injuries Affect Young Athletes Differently

Children’s bodies are constantly growing, so it’s important to take care of their developing muscles and bones with age-appropriate techniques and treatments. Participating in sports activities can help improve your child’s physical fitness and coordination, while also teaching them helpful life skills like teamwork and self-discipline. Because their bodies are still growing, young athletes are at greater risk for injury that can impair growth and even lead to long-term health issues if not addressed appropriately. However, there are many ways to help prevent injuries in young athletes, like age-appropriate physical conditioning and learning proper techniques.

Four Common Injuries Among Young Athletes

Whether your young athlete is playing sports just for fun or with a more competitive spirit, they are still at risk for injury as their bodies are still growing and their coordination, strength, and stamina are all still in development too. Here are four common types of injuries young athletes can experience.

1. Sprains & Strains

Sprains and strains are common in young athletes as their muscles, tendons, and ligaments are growing and they are developing more strength and flexibility. Sprains occur in muscles, while strains occur in tendons and ligaments, though the injuries can feel similar depending on the location. Sprains are often caused by overuse or repetitive movements, while strains occur most often during sudden twists or falls. A common example of this type of injury in young athletes is an ankle sprain. If your young athlete twists or sprains their ankle, they may feel strong pain immediately, or it may take time to develop so they keep playing on it, which can actually cause more damage in the long run.

2. Shin Splints

Shin splints are common among runners and athletes who are constantly on the go, like soccer players. Shin splints can also affect athletes who play on hard surfaces, like tennis and volleyball players. If your young athlete gets shin splints, they are experiencing a type of injury that is caused by repetitive activities and overuse. The symptoms of shin splints are commonly a dull, aching type of pain along the shin bones of the lower legs. It’s important to rest and take time away from activities that may cause shin splints in order to avoid developing stress fractures. Young athletes can learn to prevent shin splints by participating in proper warm-ups and stretches before their activities.

3. Knee Injuries

Many sports can put a lot of stress and strain on the knee joints, which can lead to injury in some cases. Young athletes who participate in sports that require a lot of running and standing can develop knee pain and tenderness around the knee cap and along the sides of the knees. The most common types of knee injuries among athletes are runner’s knee and tendinitis, which can occur due to too much stress and pressure and overuse. As with other injuries in young athletes, lack of warm-ups and proper stretches can cause harm to their growing bodies, muscles, and bones. Another type of knee injury common in high-contact sports like football is a blow to the knee. This can bruise the knee or even cause the knee to twist at an odd angle, leading to pain and swelling in the area. Be sure to seek chiropractic treatment for football players when you experience this.

4. Dislocations & Fractures

When young athletes participate in sports that involve a lot of contact with other players, they are more prone to dislocations and fractures. Shoulder, wrist, and knee dislocations are common in young athletes who play football, soccer, and wrestling. A dislocated joint will need to be put back into place by a healthcare professional. A fracture is the medical term for what is commonly known as a broken bone. Young athletes are more prone to fractures as their muscles and bones are still developing, and it’s important to seek injury treatment as soon as possible so the bone heals in the correct position.

If you are searching for “a chiropractor near me”, then visit AICA Orthopedics in Snellville. Our team of chiropractors, orthopedists, and physical therapists work together to provide quality, comprehensive care to athletes of all ages.

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