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Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons treating Pediatric Sports Injuries

PEDIATRIC SPORT INJURIES

Pediatric Sports Injuries include the following:

  • Bone fracture.
  • Concussion.
  • Growth plate injuries.
  • Muscle strain.
  • Sprains.
  • Stress fracture.
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If your child needs surgery or casting, our Fracture Care Clinic opens every day and you do not need an appointment. Surgery rooms get scheduled every morning, so your child receives the care and attention they need right away.

Pediatric Sport Injuries

  • Overuse injuries: such as Little League elbow and jumper’s knee
  • Traumatic injuries: such as fractures, dislocations, and concussions
  • Sprains and strains: particularly to the ankle, knee, and wrist
  • Heat-related illnesses: such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke
  • Growth plate injuries: which are common in skeletally immature athletes
  • Dental injuries: from contact with hard surfaces or other players.

How Does a Parent Identify a Sports Injury for Her Child

Recognizing a sports injury in a child is crucial for early intervention and proper treatment. Here are some signs and symptoms that parents can look for to identify a potential sports injury in their child:

 

  • Pain or discomfort: Children may complain of pain or discomfort during or after physical activity.
  • Swelling: Swelling may occur at the site of an injury, especially in areas such as the ankle, knee, or wrist.
  • Visible Deformity: A noticeable deformity or misalignment of the affected area.
  • Bruising: Bruising can be a sign of a traumatic injury, such as a contusion or a bone bruise.
  • Limping: Limping may indicate pain or discomfort in the leg, knee, ankle, or foot.
  • Decreased range of motion: The child may have difficulty moving a joint or limb due to pain or stiffness.
  • Weakness: A child may feel weak or have difficulty performing movements that were once easy.
  • Loss of function: A child may have trouble performing normal activities, such as running, jumping, or catching a ball.
  • Audible Pop or Snap: sometimes, a sports injury is accompanied by an audible pop or snap at the time of injury

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

What is the extent of the injury, and what is the recommended treatment plan?

The doctor will assess the injury through a physical examination and may order diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to determine the extent of the damage. The recommended treatment plan will depend on the specific injury but can include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physical therapy, or, in some cases, surgery. The doctor will provide guidance on the appropriate course of action to help the child heal and recover.

When can my child return to sports, and how can we prevent future injuries?

Parents are often eager to know when it will be safe for their child to resume sports activities. The timing for returning to sports varies depending on the type and severity of the injury. The doctor will provide a clear timeline and criteria for when it’s safe to return to sports. Additionally, they may offer guidance on injury prevention strategies, including proper warm-up routines, conditioning exercises, and techniques to reduce the risk of future sports injuries. Following these recommendations can help minimize the chances of re-injury.

Will this injury have long-term effects on my child's physical development or future athletic participation?

Parents are understandably concerned about the potential long-term consequences of a sports injury on their child’s physical development and future athletic endeavors. The doctor can discuss the expected recovery trajectory and any potential lingering effects of the injury. In many cases, with proper treatment and rehabilitation, children can make a full recovery and continue to participate in sports. However, the doctor will provide guidance on any necessary precautions or adjustments that may be needed to ensure the child’s long-term well-being and sports performance.

It’s essential for parents to maintain open communication with their child’s healthcare provider and follow their advice and recommendations throughout the recovery process. Each sports injury is unique, and the treatment and recovery plan will be tailored to the child’s specific condition and needs.

When children break bones, parents need to take them to the very best doctors.  At the Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists, we are the best.  We specialize in children, their bones, and all sports injuries.

If a Parent is Unsure or Concerned about a Potential Sports Injury in her Child, It is Best to Seek the Advice of a Healthcare Professional.

The symptoms of a sports injury can vary depending on the type and severity of the injury, but common symptoms include:

  1. Pain: localized or spread around the affected area
  2. Swelling: in the area of injury
  3. Bruising: discoloration of the skin due to internal bleeding
  4. Stiffness: in the affected joint or muscle
  5. Weakness: in the affected limb or muscle
  6. Limping: due to pain or difficulty putting weight on the affected area
  7. Decreased range of motion: difficulty moving the affected joint
  8. Instability: feeling of giving way or insecurity in the affected joint.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a sports injury, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Should a Parent Do When Their Child Shows the Symptoms of a Sports Injury

When a child shows symptoms of a sports injury, a parent should take the following steps:

  1. Remove the child from the activity or sport to prevent further injury
  2. Rest and ice the affected area: This will help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation.
  3. Compress the area with a bandage or wrap to reduce swelling
  4. Elevate the affected limb to reduce blood flow and swelling
  5. Consult a doctor: A healthcare professional can diagnose the injury, rule out any serious conditions, and recommend the appropriate treatment.
  6. Follow the doctor’s instructions: This may include rest, physical therapy, and medications.
  7. Take preventive measures: This can include proper warm-up and stretch, appropriate use of protective gear, and appropriate training and conditioning.

It’s important to take sports injuries seriously and to seek prompt medical attention, as untreated injuries can lead to long-term problems and complications.

What are the Usual Treatments for a Child Who Incurs a Sports Injury

The treatment for a child who incurs a sports injury will depend on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the child’s age, overall health, and other factors. However, common treatments for sports injuries in children include:

  1. Rest and Ice: The affected area should be rested and iced to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation.
  2. Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may be recommended to manage pain.
  3. Physical therapy: This may involve exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
  4. Stretching and Strengthening: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility and prevent future injuries.
  5. Bracing or Splinting: A brace or splint may be recommended to stabilize the affected limb and support healing.
  6. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged tissues.
  7. Rehabilitation: A rehabilitation program may be recommended to help the child return to their pre-injury level of activity.

It’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions and to seek prompt medical attention if the symptoms worsen or do not improve, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment and to promote healing and recovery.

If a Parent Suspects her Child has Suffered a Sports Injury, What Should They Do?

If a parent suspects that their child has suffered a sports injury, they should take the following steps:

  1. Remove the child from the activity or sport: This will prevent further injury and allow the child to rest and recover.
  2. Assess the symptoms: Observe the child’s symptoms, such as pain, swelling, and difficulty moving, and make note of them for the doctor.
  3. Administer first-aid: Apply ice to the affected area, compress the area with a bandage or wrap, and elevate the affected limb to reduce swelling.
  4. Consult a doctor: A healthcare professional can diagnose the injury, rule out any serious conditions, and recommend the appropriate treatment.
  5. Follow the doctor’s instructions: This may include rest, physical therapy, and medications. The doctor may also advise on when it is safe for the child to return to physical activity.
  6. Take preventive measures: This can include proper warm-ups and stretches, appropriate use of protective gear, and appropriate training and conditioning.

It’s important to seek prompt medical attention if the child’s symptoms worsen or do not improve, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment and to promote healing and recovery.

What is the Recovery Period for a Child who Suffers a Sports Injury

The recovery period for a child who suffers a sports injury will depend on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the child’s age, overall health, and other factors. However, some common recovery periods for sports injuries in children include:

  1. Sprains and strains: Recovery from sprains and strains can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the injury.
  2. Fractures: Recovery from a fracture can take several weeks to several months, depending on the type and location of the fracture.
  3. Dislocations: Recovery from a dislocation can take several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the injury.
  4. Concussions: Recovery from a concussion can take several days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the injury.
  5. Overuse injuries: Recovery from overuse injuries can take several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the injury.

It’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions and to allow sufficient time for healing and recovery. Children’s bodies heal differently from adults and a child’s growing body requires a different approach to treatment and recovery. Returning to physical activity too soon can prolong the recovery period or lead to re-injury.

Parents Should bring Their Child with a Sports Injury to Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists for Several Important Reasons:

  • Specialized Expertise: Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists with offices in Arlington, Dallas, Flower Mound, Frisco, and McKinney, TX have a dedicated team of pediatric orthopedic and spine specialists who are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating children with cerebral palsy. They possess the specific knowledge and skills required to address the unique needs of pediatric patients with neurological and musculoskeletal conditions.
  • Comprehensive Care: The specialists at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists offer comprehensive care that encompasses various aspects of cerebral palsy management. This includes evaluation, diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support to optimize the child’s mobility and quality of life.
  • Multidisciplinary Approach: Cerebral palsy often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving orthopedic specialists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals. Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists collaborate with a team of experts to provide holistic care tailored to the child’s specific needs.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: The institute is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and the latest medical technologies, allowing for accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment options. This ensures that children receive the most up-to-date and effective care available.
  • Compassionate Care: Pediatric specialists at Medical City prioritize compassionate care, recognizing the unique emotional and developmental needs of children and their families.
  • Focus on Functional Improvement: The primary goal of treatment at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists is to enhance the child’s functional abilities and overall well-being. Whether through physical therapy, orthopedic interventions, or surgical procedures, the focus is on improving the child’s mobility and independence.
  • Ongoing Support: Caring for a child with cerebral palsy is a lifelong journey. The institute provides ongoing support and guidance to parents, ensuring they have access to resources and expertise to help their child reach their full potential.

In summary

Parents can trust Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists for their child’s cerebral palsy care due to the specialized expertise, comprehensive approach, state-of-the-art facilities, and compassionate care provided by the institute. Choosing a dedicated pediatric center ensures that children receive the best possible care to optimize their quality of life and future prospects.

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Footnote:

National Library of Medicine: Pediatric Sports Injuries

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