Sports Injuries in Kids & Physiotherapy Treatment
Children and teens are active, but their growing bones, muscles and joints make them more prone to certain types of sports injuries. Here’s a breakdown of common sports injuries in kids and how physiotherapy plays a key role in recovery.
Common Sports Injuries in Children
1. Sprains & Strains
• What it is: overstretching or tearing of ligaments (sprain) or muscles/tendons (strain)
• Common sites: ankles, knees, wrists
• Typical sports: soccer, basketball, gymnastics
2. Growth Plate Injuries
• What it is: damage to the growth area at the ends of long bones
• Why it matters: can affect bone development
• Typical sports: any high-impact or repetitive sport
3. Osgood-Schlatter Disease
• What it is: inflammation at the shinbone just below the knee
• Who it affects: active kids in growth spurts (9–14 years)
• Typical sports: running, jumping, soccer, basketball
4. Sever’s Disease
• What it is: heel pain due to growth plate inflammation in the heel
• Who it affects: young athletes aged 8–13
• Typical sports: running, soccer, gymnastics
5. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)
• What it is: knee pain from repetitive stress or poor alignment
• Typical sports: running, jumping sports
6. Fractures
• What it is: broken bones from falls or impacts
• Typical sports: all contact sports, biking, skateboarding
7. Shoulder & Elbow Injuries
• Examples: “Little League shoulder” or “Little League elbow” (overuse from throwing)
• Typical sports: baseball, tennis, swimming
