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Overuse injuries in the young athlete.
1Division of Sports Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
Clinics in Sports Medicine
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Overuse injuries are increasingly recognized in athletes of all ages. Understanding overuse syndrome is crucial, especially for child and adolescent athletes, to prevent long-term disability.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Overuse injuries are prevalent in athletes across all levels.
- The public is more aware of overuse syndrome due to media attention on professional athletes.
- The spectrum of overuse injuries in pediatric athletes is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the spectrum of overuse injuries in child and adolescent athletes.
- To increase recognition of overuse injuries in young athletes.
- To emphasize the potential for permanent disability from these injuries.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on overuse injuries in pediatric athletes.
- Analysis of case studies and epidemiological data.
- Synthesis of current understanding of overuse syndrome in young athletes.
Main Results:
- Overuse injuries in young athletes range from mild "growing pains" to severe conditions.
- Conditions like osteochondritis dissecans can lead to permanent disability.
- Early recognition and management are critical for pediatric overuse injuries.
Conclusions:
- The spectrum of overuse injuries in child and adolescent athletes requires greater attention.
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention are essential to prevent long-term consequences.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms and management of these injuries.