Overview: Sports Injuries in Children

Fall sports season is here, and our children are getting fresh air and exercise as well as building valuable skills, confidence, and good sportsmanship. And, most importantly, they’re having fun. But even with all of these benefits of youth sports, sports injuries pose a risk to our children’s health and safety. Nearly one-third of all injuries in children are sports-related injuries. It is important for parents and children to be aware of these risks so that proper measures may be taken to prevent them.

What Are Sports Injuries in Children?

A pediatric sports injury is an injury that most commonly occurs when a child is engaged in physical activity such as playing a sport, exercising, or participating in other athletic activities. Sports injuries can be broadly categorized as either acute or chronic. An acute sports injury happens suddenly, such as falling, twisting (like “twisting an ankle”), or getting hit. A chronic sports injury develops gradually over time and can often be attributed to overuse. In some cases, acute injuries can happen because of the existing wear-and-tear from an overuse injury.

What Are Different Types of Sports Injuries in Children?

There are many different types of sports injuries that can occur. Some of the most common are as follows:

1. Bone fracture—A partial or complete break in the bone from a sudden force (acute fracture) or repeated stress (stress fracture). Growth plate fractures can happen in children who are still growing

2. Concussion—A mild traumatic brain injury caused by a bump or blow to the head

3. Dislocation—The movement of the end of a bone in a joint from its natural position, such as when a shoulder “pops out of its socket”

4. Sprain—Stretching or tearing of a ligament (a strong, flexible tissue that connects bone to bone at a joint, holding them together)

5. Strain—Stretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon (a tissue that connects muscle to bone)

6. Tendinitis—Inflammation of a tendon

What Are Some Common Sports Injuries in Children?

The most common sports injuries in children and adolescents include:

1. Sprains

2. Strains

3. Growth plate irritation (apophysitis)

4. Stress fractures

5. Concussions

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Sport Injuries in Children?

The signs and symptoms of sports injuries depend on the type of injury sustained. These include the following:

Acute Injury Signs/Symptoms

1. Sudden pain

2. Swelling

3. Discoloration of the skin (such as bruising or redness)

4. Unable to bear weight on the injured body part (like ankle, foot, knee, leg)

5. Deformity

6. Stiffness/weakness

7. Decreased range of motion/inability to move a joint normally

Chronic (Overuse) Injury Signs/Symptoms

1. Pain with physical activity

2. Dull ache and swelling at rest

Concussion Signs/Symptoms

1. Headache

2. Nausea/vomiting

3. Confusion

4. Temporary loss of consciousness

5. Dizziness/lightheadedness/balance issues

6. Double/blurry vision

7. Sensitivity to light/noise

8. Ringing in the ears

9. Tiredness/drowsiness

10. Difficulty understanding/concentrating

11. Irritability/nervousness/anxiousness

How are Sports Injuries Diagnosed?

Most sports injuries are diagnosed with a physical exam where the cause of injury will be discussed, the injury will be assessed, and imaging may be ordered to further evaluate. Possible imaging studies include x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography scan (CT/CAT scan).

How Are Sports Injuries in Children Treated?

Treatment for sports injuries can vary depending on the type and severity of the injury. Many sports injuries can be safely managed at home with over-the-counter medications (such as ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling) and R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, and elevation). Severe sports injuries may require immediate medical care including immobilization (with casts, splints, slings, etc.), injections to reduce pain and swelling, prescription anti-inflammatory medications, and possible surgery. Both minor and severe sports injuries could benefit from early physical therapy such as stretching and strengthening exercises. This helps to promote healing, increase range of motion, and may help prevent future reinjury.

How Can I Help My Child Prevent Sports Injuries?

Most sports injuries result from either a direct injury or overuse of muscles or joints. Sports injuries can be prevented in young athletes by warming-up properly and stretching before and after any exercise. Using the proper protective gear and equipment is essential.

It is also important to avoid overuse injuries by taking appropriate rest and breaks from vigorous exercise and training. You can help your child’s body get proper rest by taking one to two days off from competitive sports and training per week and two to three months during the year.

Key Points to Remember:

Sports injuries are common in children with more than 3.5 million injuries each year. Many minor injuries can be treated at home with the R.I.C.E. method and over-the-counter medications, but more severe injuries may require immediate medical attention and even surgery. Your child can help prevent sports injuries with proper training and conditioning, the use or proper protective gear and equipment, and appropriate rest when needed to allow the body to heal. Use these key prevention strategies this sports season to help your child stay safe!

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