Keeping Young Athletes Safe: Preventing Apophyseal Injuries
As the winter sports season and cross-country events approach in New Zealand, parents are gearing up to support their children in staying active and healthy. However, with increased physical activity comes the risk of apophyseal injuries, which are often mistaken for growing pains. Understanding these injuries and how to prevent them is crucial for parents to ensure their children's well-being.
What are Apophyseal Injuries?
Apophyseal injuries occur when there is inflammation or stress on the areas around growth plates in children and adolescents. These injuries are commonly caused by repetitive overuse activities such as running, jumping, and throwing, but can also occur as acute injuries from falls or rapid movements. Apophysitis can occur in various parts of the body, including the heel, knee, elbow, shoulder, hip, and foot.
Different Types of Apophysitis
Several specific types of apophysitis are seen in children, including:
Sever's Disease: Involves inflammation and pain at the back or underside of the heel.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease: Causes pain and inflammation at the bony area under the patella or knee cap.
Little League Elbow and Shoulder: Result in pain at the bony parts of the inner elbow and upper arm at the shoulder.
Iliac Crest Apophysitis: Affects the bony part of the upper hip near the waist.
Sinding-Larson-Johansson Syndrome: Involves pain at the bottom part of the patella or knee cap.
Iselin’s Disease: Affects the outside edge of the middle part of the foot.
Recognizing Apophysitis
Symptoms of apophysitis include pain that worsens during or after repetitive sports activities, swelling, and tenderness over the affected area. If your child experiences these symptoms, it's essential to consult a physiotherapist who is experiences with youth for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Preventing Apophysitis
Parents can help prevent apophysitis by:
Encouraging Cross-Training: Encourage your child to participate in a variety of sports and activities to avoid overuse of specific muscles and joints.
Monitoring Intensity: Ensure that your child's training intensity and duration are appropriate for their age and development level.
Promoting Proper Technique: Emphasise the importance of using proper technique during sports activities to reduce the risk of injury.
Ensuring Adequate Rest: Allow your child to rest and recover between training sessions to prevent overuse injuries.
Seeking Professional Advice: Consult a physiotherapist experienced in working with children if your child complains of recurring musculoskeletal pain.
Nurture Paediatric Physio: Your Partner in Injury Prevention
At Nurture Paediatric Physio, we understand the importance of preventing injuries in young athletes. Our focus is on injury prevention and early intervention, ensuring that your child's musculoskeletal system remains healthy and strong. We work closely with parents and children to provide personalized care and guidance, helping them navigate the challenges of youth sports safely and effectively.
Conclusion
As parents, it's crucial to be aware of the risks of apophyseal injuries in young athletes and take steps to prevent them. By encouraging cross-training, monitoring training intensity, promoting proper technique, ensuring adequate rest, and seeking professional advice when needed, you can help keep your child safe and healthy while they enjoy their favorite sports and activities. Remember, at Nurture Paediatric Physio, we're here to support you and your child every step of the way.