Organized sports are an effective way for children to get exercise, socialize and learn important skills such as teamwork and sportsmanship. However, the Children's Hospital of Boston reports that there are approximately 3 million sports injuries among children every year. Accidents are possible in any sport, with contact sports causing the most injuries.
Bone and Growth Plate Injuries
Sports that involve sliding, jumping and rough physical contact can lead to bone and growth plate injuries. Growth plates are areas of tissue at the end of bones in children and adolescents. Children who slide into obstacles that don't move, such as poles or permanent bases, can easily damage a bone or growth plate. Bones also can be broken when children not dressed in the proper gear are tackled. It is important to consult an orthopedist or an orthopedic surgeon to receive proper care for these types of injuries.
Eye Injuries
Children who don't wear protective eyewear while playing sports are susceptible to eye injuries such as detached retinas, scratched corneas and blood in the eye. Eye injuries can happen in any sport, but they are especially common in racket sports in which children can be hit in the eye by rackets or small, hard balls. Eye injuries are common in basketball, as well. Children can be elbowed in the eye by other kids coming down from jumps or protecting the ball as they dribble.
Overuse Injuries
When a child puts too much repetitive stress on his muscles and bones, he can suffer an overuse injury. Since bones are growing and developing in children, overuse injuries are especially problematic. Anterior knee pain is one type of overuse injury and is characterized by a sore, swollen knee. The child will feel the bulk of the pain under her kneecap.
Another overuse injury is called Little League elbow. This elbow pain and tenderness is caused by repetitive throwing in sports such as baseball and softball. The pediatric website Kids Health explains that children who suffer from this malady will feel pain most when following through with a throw.
Heat-Related Illness
Heat sickness is not often considered an injury, but is very serious. Heat exhaustion, heat stroke and dehydration are all heat-related illnesses characterized by dizziness, nausea, headaches, disorientation and fainting. All of these illnesses can be fatal, but they are preventable. Children dehydrate easily. They should constantly drink water while practicing or playing sports. If weather conditions are very hot, practices should be conducted indoors or canceled. Games should be postponed in extremely hot conditions.
Member Comments