Pediatric Sports Injuries
At Circle of Care, we offer comprehensive pediatric physical therapy for children facing sports injuries. Through a combination of exercises, therapeutic techniques, and education, our physical therapists will guide your child through each phase of your child’s recovery process after a sports injury. Take the first step by scheduling a consultation with our experts.
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How Do You Detect A Sports Injury?
Detecting a sports injury can sometimes be challenging in children, it requires attentiveness and observation. While children may not always express their discomfort, there are several signs that can indicate a potential injury such as pain, swelling, limited range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight on the injured limb. These symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the injury, but if your child experiences any of these after a sports activity, it’s important to seek medical attention.
What Are The Most Common Sports Injuries?
Kids can get hurt while playing sports, and it’s crucial to understand that each injury needs a special approach to treatment and recovery. These injuries can happen in different sports and can hurt various body parts. Let’s see some of the common sports injuries we can help with at Circle of Care:
- Sprains and Strains
- Fractures
- Dislocations
- Concussions
- Overuse Injuries
- Stress Injuries
- Tendon Injuries
When Should Your Child Go To Physical Therapy For A Sports Injury?
There are several key indicators that suggest it’s time to explore physical therapy as part of the recovery process, such as persistent pain, limited mobility, weakness, balance and coordination problems, and recurrent injuries. These are all signals that physical therapy may be beneficial.
If your child has received a prescription for physical therapy from a healthcare provider or is undergoing post-surgery rehabilitation, it’s crucial to follow through with the recommendation. Physical therapy not only addresses physical symptoms but also supports your child’s overall well-being during recovery. A physical therapist will assess the injury, create a personalized treatment plan, and work with your child to promote healing, regain strength and mobility, and prevent future injuries.
The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Sports Injuries in Children
Physical therapy offers a holistic approach to managing sports injuries in children, addressing not only the injury itself but also the overall well-being of the child. Our skilled pediatric physical therapists focus on restoring mobility, strength, and function while also teaching injury prevention strategies. Physical therapy helps children recover faster and safely return to their favorite activities.
- Pain Management
- Restoring Function and Mobility
- Preventing Future Injuries
- Promoting Healing and Recovery
- Education and Empowerment
What Are Common Treatments For Sports Injuries In Children?
The treatment for sports injuries in children depends on several factors. The type and severity of the injury play pivotal roles in shaping the treatment plan and determining the most appropriate approach. For minor injuries, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) may be sufficient, along with over-the-counter pain relievers. However, more severe injuries may be necessary to do a medical evaluation, including diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans. Here are some common treatments used in managing sports injuries in children:
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy offers a holistic approach to managing the rehabilitation and recovery of sports injuries in children. It focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, and function to the injured area through targeted exercises and therapeutic techniques. The goal of physical therapy for kids is to achieve an optimal level of function for independence after their sports injury.
Surgery
In some cases, severe injuries may require surgical intervention. For example, torn ligaments or tendons may need to be surgically repaired. Fractures that cannot be realigned through manual methods may require surgery to fix with pins, screws, or plates.
Pain Medication
Over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. It is important to follow the recommended dosage guidelines and consult a healthcare professional if pain persists or worsens.
How Does Sports Injury Recovery Work?
Sports injury recovery is a process that involves various stages and timelines, depending on the type and severity of the injury. Here is a general overview of the recovery process:
1. Acute Phase
The acute phase occurs immediately after the injury and typically lasts a few days to a week. During this phase, the primary focus is on reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation through rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
2. Subacute Phase
The subacute phase begins once the initial swelling and inflammation have subsided. This phase usually lasts a few weeks to a couple of months. The goal is to restore range of motion, strength, and function through physical therapy, gentle exercises, and controlled movements.
3. Rehabilitation Phase
The rehabilitation phase focuses on gradually increasing the intensity and complexity of exercises and movements to restore full function and prevent future injuries. This phase can last several months, depending on the individual’s progress and the nature of the injury.
4. Return to Activity Phase
The return to activity phase involves a gradual transition back to sports or physical activities. It is essential to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals and gradually increase the intensity and duration of activities to minimize the risk of re-injury.
Physical Therapy for Sports Injuries with Circle of Care
If your child has experienced a sports injury, know that they don’t have to face the recovery process alone. At Circle of Care, we are dedicated to providing exceptional physical therapy services tailored to the unique needs of children with sports injuries. Our compassionate team of skilled therapists will work closely with your child to develop a personalized treatment plan that focuses on their overall well-being and recovery. Contact us today to learn more about our physical therapy services for sports injuries in children.