5 Common Sports Injuries in Children

Having a child that is passionate about sports in this time and age is a blessing in disguise. With technology, video games, and smartphones on the rise, it’s hard for children to find the time or the motivation to go out and play sports.

While encouraging this healthy physical activity is certainly recommended, it is also important to be mindful of the injuries that children commonly sustain when on the field.

Here’s a short breakdown of the five most common sports injuries in children.

#1: Ankle sprains

Ankle sprains are a common occurrence in both adults and children. This occurs when an awkward step or a fall compromises the ankle joint’s ligaments.

The good news is that most sprains heal on their own without aggressive medical treatment in about a week or so.

#2: Shin splints

Shin splints are often seen in children who are avid runners. Running on flat, hard surfaces can cause pressure on the shins, resulting in pain and discomfort when running. Shin splints also usually get better on their own with proper rest.

#3: Little league shoulder

Little league shoulder is a term that applies to pain in the shoulder area after overusing the joint. Overuse of any joint for prolonged periods of time can cause microtears that can manifest as pain on movement and on touch.

#4: ACL tears

The ACL or the anterior cruciate ligament is a strong ligament that holds together the knee joint. ACL tears can occur in contact sports after a fall or direct impact blow.

A tear usually presents with severe pain in the knee joint, particularly when bending, and sometimes, swelling. Small ACL tears will usually heal spontaneously, but larger tears may need surgical treatment.

#5: Osgood- Schlatter Disease

Osgood Schlatter disease is exclusively found in growing children. It causes a painful bump to form below the knee and is frequently seen in runners. The good news is that it heals as the child grows older and typically requires no active treatment.