SPORTS MEDICINE DOCTORS

 ow do I know if my child has a broken bone?

If you feel your child may have a broken bone, be sure to bring him or her to Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists so one of our pediatric orthopedic specialists can provide a comprehensive diagnosis. “It’s often hard to diagnose a broken bone without an X-ray exam and a medical exam. That’s why we have an X-ray located in our office”, Shyam Kishan, MD.

The single biggest factor contributing to the dramatic increase in overuse injuries in young athletes is the focus on more intense, repetitive, and specialized training at much younger ages.

The Vital Role of Sports Medicine Doctors in Treating Young Athletes

Sports are a cornerstone of childhood development, offering young athletes as early as age four the chance to build physical skills, learn teamwork, and embrace healthy competition. As these children grow and engage in organized sports—whether it’s soccer, basketball, gymnastics, or football—the intensity and frequency of their activities often increase. While sports provide immense benefits, they also come with risks. Injuries, ranging from minor sprains to severe fractures, are an unfortunate reality, particularly as young athletes push their growing bodies to new limits.

At Medical City Children’s Orthopedic and Spine Specialists, our board-certified pediatric sports medicine doctors have observed a marked rise in sports-related injuries among children. Conditions such as stress fractures, tendinitis, bursitis, apophysitis (inflammation of growth plates), and osteochondral injuries (damage to cartilage and underlying bone) are becoming more common in organized sports. This trend underscores the critical need for specialized care tailored to the unique physiology of young athletes. In this article, we’ll explore the role of sports medicine doctors, the risks young athletes face, prevention strategies, and when to seek expert care.

Understanding Sports Injuries in Children

Children’s bodies are not simply smaller versions of adult bodies—they are dynamic systems undergoing rapid growth and development. This makes them particularly vulnerable to certain types of injuries. When activity levels become too intense or increase too quickly, tissues can break down, muscles strain, and bones—still maturing—may even fracture. Unlike adults, children have growth plates (areas of developing cartilage at the ends of long bones), which are weaker than surrounding ligaments and tendons and less resistant to repetitive stress. This vulnerability contributes to the rising incidence of overuse injuries in young athletes.

Common Sports Injuries in Young Athletes

• Stress Fractures: Tiny cracks in bones caused by repetitive force, often seen in the legs or feet.
• Tendinitis: Inflammation of tendons due to overuse, common in the knees (patellar tendinitis) or elbows (tennis elbow).
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints, often affecting the shoulder or hip.
• Apophysitis: Irritation of growth plates, such as Sever’s disease (heel) or Osgood-Schlatter disease (knee).
• Osteochondral Injuries: Damage to the cartilage and bone in joints, frequently occurring in the ankle or knee.

The Role of Pediatric Sports Medicine Doctors

When a young athlete suffers an injury, timely and expert evaluation is essential. At Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists, our pediatric sports medicine doctors are uniquely trained to address the complexities of children’s growing bones, muscles, and joints. Unlike general practitioners or adult-focused orthopedists, our specialists understand how growth influences injury patterns and healing processes.

Pediatric sports medicine is a specialized field for a reason: kids aren’t just smaller adults. Their bodies are developing rapidly, and injuries to growth plates or joints can have lasting effects if not treated with precise, age-appropriate care. Our team brings together expertise from multiple subspecialties—orthopedics, sports medicine, physical therapy, and athletic training—to ensure your child receives comprehensive, individualized treatment.

Comprehensive Care Tailored for Young Athletes

We treat a wide range of sports injuries, from sprains and strains to complex issues like ACL tears, even in children as young as six. Therefore, our approach is always mindful of your child’s long-term growth and development. Whether it’s using minimally invasive surgical techniques to protect growth plates or designing rehabilitation plans that support safe return to play, we focus on both healing and prevention.

Convenience matters, too. With services from injury prevention to rehabilitation available under one roof, young athletes can access everything they need, from initial evaluation to physical therapy, without unnecessary delays. Additionally, this integrated care model helps get kids back on the field safely and as quickly as possible. In short, when your child’s athletic future is at stake, specialized pediatric sports medicine offers the expertise and holistic care needed to support every step of their journey, on and off the field.

When to Seek Immediate Care

Certain injuries demand urgent attention from a board-certified pediatric sports medicine doctor:

• Visible swelling or deformity
• Loss of normal function (e.g., inability to move or bear weight)
• Severe pain that persists beyond the initial impact

For seemingly minor injuries, such as mild sprains or soreness, rest and observation may suffice. However, if pain lingers, worsens, or prevents full participation after a few days, a specialist evaluation is warranted. Also, untreated injuries can evolve into chronic conditions, such as persistent joint instability or arthritis, requiring extended recovery periods and potentially sidelining athletes for months.

Comprehensive Treatment Approaches

Our doctors prioritize conservative treatments whenever possible, including:

• Rest and activity modification
• Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility
• Bracing or casting to support healing
• Pain management with safe, age-appropriate methods

We understand that each child’s injury is unique, and our care plans are designed to protect their ongoing growth and development. Our multidisciplinary team—including pediatricians, orthopedic specialists, athletic trainers, and physical therapists—works together to ensure your child receives well-rounded support from diagnosis through recovery.

When surgery is unavoidable—such as for severe fractures or ligament tears—our team ensures the child receives top-tier care. We often prepare young patients with pre-surgical conditioning to build endurance, minimizing hospital stays and accelerating recovery. Post-operative rehabilitation is tailored to the child’s age, sport, and goals, ensuring a safe return to play.

Protecting Growth and Recovery

For injuries that require surgery, we use pediatric-specific techniques to protect growth plates and preserve future development. We prefer minimally invasive procedures when possible. These allow smaller incisions, reduce tissue disruption, and lead to faster recovery times.

Physical therapy focuses on more than just healing. It helps rebuild strength, flexibility, and confidence in a child-friendly environment. Our therapists have experience working with children and young athletes. They provide age-appropriate rehabilitation in a supportive, motivating setting.
We always aim to help your child safely return to favorite activities, from playground games to competitive sports.

A Personalized Path Back to Play

We personalize every treatment based on your child’s injury, age, and activity level. Our goal is to offer the most effective and least invasive solutions. We help your child recover fully and return to what they love—stronger than before. We offer on-site diagnostic imaging for fast, accurate injury assessments. Our clinics use advanced X-ray technology to reduce radiation while delivering high-quality images. This enables precise diagnosis and targeted treatment planning.

Physical therapy plans focus on muscle strength, flexibility, and a safe return to activity. Our therapists specialize in pediatric care. They work with young athletes in modern gyms to make therapy both fun and effective. When needed, we use splints and braces to stabilize injured limbs and promote healing. Our team helps families adjust to these devices, offering tips for using crutches or dressing with a cast.

For children with severe fractures or ligament tears, our surgical team delivers top-tier care. Consequently, we often use pre-surgical conditioning to improve strength and reduce hospital time. inimally invasive techniques reduce tissue damage and help speed healing.

We tailor post-operative rehab to your child’s age, sport, and recovery goals. Athletic trainers collaborate with physicians and therapists throughout the process. They assist with evaluations, coordinate care, and create personalized rehabilitation programs.
This support continues in the clinic and as kids return to sports and activities.

Preventing Sports Injuries: A Proactive Approach

Prevention is the first line of defense against sports injuries. Parents, coaches, and athletes can work together to reduce risks and promote long-term health. Here are evidence-based strategies to keep young athletes safe:

• Open Communication: Encourage your child to report discomfort or pain without fear of judgment. Early recognition is key.
• Preseason Physicals: A comprehensive exam can identify risk factors like muscle imbalances or underlying conditions.
• Balanced Nutrition: A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein supports bone and muscle development.
• Cross-Training: Participating in multiple sports builds overall fitness and reduces repetitive strain on specific areas.
• Adequate Rest: Scheduled breaks between practices, games, and seasons allow the body to recover.
• Proper Equipment: Invest in well-fitted shoes, helmets, and padding—shortcuts compromise safety.
• Warm-Ups and Stretching: Dynamic warm-ups and flexibility exercises prepare muscles and joints for activity.
• Technique Training: Coaches should emphasize proper form to minimize stress in vulnerable areas.

Specialized Programs for Sports Performance and Injury Prevention

Young athletes today benefit from innovative training and injury prevention programs designed just for them. These programs go far beyond routine checkups—they blend cutting-edge clinical care, advanced imaging technology, and customized athletic training to help children excel on and off the field.

Comprehensive offerings often include:

• Performance Evaluations: In-depth assessments using tools like 3D motion capture and biomechanical analysis help spot movement patterns that could increase injury risk or hinder performance.
• Sports Physical Therapy: Therapists develop tailored programs to address weaknesses, build strength, and restore flexibility, helping kids recover from injury and reduce the likelihood of reinjury.
• Athletic Training Sessions: Certified trainers guide athletes through sport-specific exercises, focusing on proper technique, agility, and endurance.
• Advanced Imaging: High-quality MRI, ultrasound, and X-rays provide precise details when injuries are suspected or need monitoring.
• Educational Workshops: Sessions for athletes, parents, and coaches stress the importance of safe training habits, smart nutrition, hydration, and how to recognize early warning signs of injury.

Programs such as those developed by organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Strength and Conditioning Association ensure training is developmentally appropriate. By leveraging evidence-based methodologies, these specialized centers empower young athletes not only to reach their peak performance but also to enjoy a safer, healthier athletic journey.

When to See a Sports Medicine Doctor

Not every ache requires a doctor’s visit, but certain symptoms signal the need for expert care:

• Persistent pain during or after sports
• New or recurring swelling around a joint
• Joint instability (e.g., “giving way” during activity)
• Painful popping sounds (note: painless pops are typically normal)
• Pain unrelieved by rest or over-the-counter remedies

Ignoring these signs can delay healing and worsen outcomes. Our specialists use advanced diagnostics—such as X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds, to pinpoint the problem and craft a personalized treatment plan. Many of our clinics feature on-site radiology, allowing us to take X-rays right in the office for fast and accurate assessment. In addition, we utilize state-of-the-art imaging technology to minimize radiation exposure while delivering detailed, high-quality scans. This streamlined approach not only speeds up diagnosis but also helps us get your child on the path to recovery as efficiently as possible.

Why Choose Medical City Children’s Orthopedic and Spine Specialists?

When your child needs a pediatric sports medicine doctor, our practice stands out for its expertise and accessibility. The Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists doctors only treat children. Our doctors at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists are located in five convenient locations: Dallas, Arlington, Flower Mound, Frisco, and McKinney, TX, for families in the Dallas and Fort Worth area. Selecting a pediatric orthopedic doctor for your child is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration.

Doctors Shyam Kishan, Richard Hostin, and Kathryn Wiesman have spent years studying children’s health and have devoted their lives to treating them. Our physicians specialize in children’s orthopedics and sports medicine, offering a deep understanding of how injuries affect growing bodies.

Comprehensive, Collaborative Care

Our team brings together board-certified pediatric orthopedists, sports medicine doctors, athletic trainers, and physical therapists, each with a deep well of experience treating everything from minor sprains to complex injuries like ACL tears in young children. Also, we work together to deliver seamless care, from diagnosis to rehabilitation, ensuring your child receives specialized attention at every step.

Urgent Care for Immediate Needs

We know injuries don’t wait, which is why at least one of our offices offers urgent care daily. Skip the long waits and high costs of the emergency room—our team provides prompt diagnosis and treatment, often on the same day. If the open urgent care office isn’t your closest location, don’t worry: visit us for initial care, then follow up at the office nearest you for ongoing support.

Protecting Growing Athletes

Children aren’t just small adults—their bones, muscles, and joints are still developing. Our practice uses pediatric-specific techniques, including minimally invasive and growth plate-sparing procedures, to treat injuries without compromising your child’s future growth or athletic potential. We take a conservative, evidence-based approach to surgery, always striving to preserve your child’s long-term health and mobility.

Parent-Centered Care

We think like parents because many of us are parents ourselves. Our goal is to get your child back to the activities they love—safely and swiftly. From on-the-spot evaluations to long-term rehabilitation, we partner with families every step of the way.

We know that every child and every family is unique. That’s why we always consider your child’s eagerness to play, along with your family’s concerns for comfort and well-being. This helps us personalize treatments to fit your family’s preferences, and we’re always open to adjusting the plan when needed. Your voice matters—because your child’s care should work for your whole family.

We listen to your concerns, explain treatment options in plain language, and invite your input as part of our decision-making process.

Convenience and Reach

Our five locations mean you’re never far from expert care, and we’re proud to welcome families from throughout Texas (and sometimes beyond) who trust our reputation and specialized pediatric expertise. Whether your child is referred by a local physician or you’re seeking a second opinion, we’re here to provide guidance and support.

The Bigger Picture: Sports Medicine’s Impact

Beyond treating injuries, pediatric sports medicine doctors play a broader role in fostering healthy, active lifestyles. They educate families about safe training practices, advocate for balanced athletic development, and help young athletes build resilience. By addressing injuries early and effectively, these specialists ensure that sports remain a source of joy and growth, not pain and frustration.

Commitment to Research and Innovation

Our commitment extends beyond clinical care. We stay current with the latest research and advances in pediatric sports medicine, including studies on rare injuries like osteochondritis dissecans. By participating in ongoing education and innovation, we bring leading-edge treatments to our patients and help shape the future of pediatric orthopedics.

Whether your child is a budding soccer star or a weekend warrior, their health is our priority. Finally, at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists, we’re here to keep them in the game today and for years to come.

____________________

Footnote:

Sports Medicine Today: What is a Sports Medicine Physician

Our Sports Medicine Doctors at Medical City Children’s Orthopedic and Spine Specialists have experience and expertise in the treatment of sports-related injuries in children. Our board-certified doctors specialize in the treatment of children and adolescents and can give your child the care and attention they deserve.