Sports Injuries

What are common sports injuries in children?

Younger athletes are especially vulnerable to sports injuries because their bones and muscles are still developing. Common examples include:

• Sprains (overstretched ligaments)
• Strains (overstretched tendons or muscles)
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations
• Concussions (mild brain injuries)
• Overuse injuries like shin splints and tendinitis

While most injuries are minor, some require medical attention to prevent long-term problems or reinjury.

What causes sports injuries?

Injuries can occur from a single accident, such as a fall, collision, or awkward landing, or develop gradually due to overuse.

Repetitive motions, like pitching a baseball or running long distances, can strain muscles and joints over time. Inadequate warm-ups, poor technique, or playing through pain can also increase risk.

Children who specialize in one sport year-round are more likely to experience overuse injuries because they use the same muscles and joints repeatedly without rest.

What are the signs of a sports injury?

Sports injury signs vary, but often include:

• Swelling
• Bruising
• Limping
• Stiffness
• Reduced range of motion
• Persistent pain during or after activity

If your child complains of pain that doesn’t improve with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relief, it’s time to schedule an evaluation — same-day sick visits are available. Ignoring pain can lead to chronic issues or more serious injuries down the road.

How are sports injuries diagnosed and treated?

The Bloom Pediatrics team begins with a physical exam to assess tenderness, swelling, and joint stability. They may also use imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (the RICE method), physical therapy, or bracing. In rare cases, fractures or ligament tears may require referral to an orthopedic surgeon.

Return-to-play decisions depend on healing progress and medical clearance. A full recovery, including restored strength and mobility, is essential to prevent reinjury. With prompt treatment, proper technique, and balanced activity, most young athletes can safely return to doing what they love.

How can my child prevent sports injuries?

Prevention starts with proper warm-ups, stretching, and strength training to keep muscles flexible and joints stable. Children should wear sport-specific protective gear and make sure the equipment fits properly.

Encourage regular rest days to give children's bodies time to recover, and remind them to speak up about pain or fatigue rather than pushing through.

Call Bloom Pediatrics to book your child a sports injury assessment or schedule a consultation using the online booking feature today.