These days, there are so many technological devices that seem to grab and keep our children’s attention. Many children can spend several hours at a time, engrossed in the screens. This has led to a more sedentary lifestyle for children, making it more important than ever for parents to encourage physical activity. One such way is to have children participate in sports, whether it be in a children’s group setting, after school programs, private lessons, or community leagues.

Participating in group activities can benefit children in many ways, including teaching sportsmanship, promoting teamwork skills, and improving social skills. The increased activity also helps to keep a healthy lifestyle. However, with sports comes the added risk of injuries. Some common injuries include:

• Chronic repetitive stress at the elbow, wrist, knee, ankles, or feet. Repetitive motions can cause strain in the muscles and tissues. Additionally, any repetitive impacts, such as with jumping or kickingequipment can cause stress fractures. If there are symptoms of pain, make sure your child is correcting technique and modifies time spent doing repetitive movements.
• Broken Bones. Falls, collisions, or impact with equipment can cause painful injuries that lead to broken bones. The bones will need to be set (probably through surgery) and cast. To reduce risk of breaking bones, children should follow sports guidelines, as well as wear protective gear and shoes that are appropriate for the sport.
• Sprains. When a ligament(s) is stretched beyond their natural flexibility limits, children can experience a sprain. The most common is an ankle sprain from landing on the ankle in a strange position. Proper footwear can help prevent this injury.

For growing children, one of the most important injuries to pay attention to is an injury to a growth plate. The growth plate is the area that is still growing on long bones such as in the legs or in the feet. It may require specialized care from an orthopedic surgeon. After an injury, assess your children’s feet. If pain and symptoms are mild, you may be able to treat with the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation). If pain and swelling are moderate or severe, it’s important to see our podiatrist, who can determine how to best proceed. 

If your child has sustained an injury, contact your local podiatrist at Texas Foot Works. Dr. Jonathan M. Kletz is ready to help you find the best treatment for your growing little one. Make an appointment today at any of our Abrams (Dallas), Athens, and Gun Barrell City, TX offices!