Preventing sport overuse injuries before they start

Having children in sports is a great way to keep them healthy. However, it’s important to remind them to rest and recover properly, to avoid an overuse injury.

An overuse injury is damage to a bone, muscle, ligament or tendon, caused by repetitive stress, without allowing time for the body to heal. This can cause inflammation, muscle strain and tissue damage.

Overuse injuries happen most commonly in joints and connective tissue. Injuries may include shoulder impingement, tennis elbow and stress fractures.

“We typically see it in our athletics that participate in the same sport year-round, or those that participate in multiple sports, with similar mechanics, such as volleyball and softball,” said athletic trainer Erin Sparks.

An overuse injury can start out as a slight ache that worsens over time, leading to extreme pain and discomfort.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, because young athletes are still growing, they are at a greater risk for injury, than adults. The consequences of overdoing a sport can include injuries that impair growth and may lead to long-term health problems.

Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to overuse injuries, such as getting a preseason physical; encouraging cross training and a variety of sports; stressing the importance of warming up, proper technique and form; making sure they rest and recover; providing a healthy, well-balanced diet; and recognizing injuries and getting help.

Overuse injuries can take weeks, and sometimes, months, to heal completely. The sooner an overuse is suspected or diagnosed, the sooner the body can heal.

“Typically, the first thing we recommend people to do if an overuse injury is suspected, is to rest and ice the affected area,” said Sparks. “Otherwise, if it’s something that has been going on for a long time, seek medical attention to get a close and more specified treatment plan.”

It’s important that young athlete understands that he or she should talk with a parent, or coach, and seek help if experiencing pain or something that just doesn’t feel right. If overuse is expected, don’t push through the pain. Rest and recover.

If symptoms persist, talk to a doctor.