sports injuries in teen athletes: why pediatric care makes a difference

In this article:

• benefits of pediatric care for sports injuries
• nutrition that fuels performance and recovery
• athlete mental health
• return to play safely

Did you know that kids and teens have unique needs when it comes to growth and development? When an injury happens, it’s natural to want the fastest recovery possible, but seeing a pediatric specialist matters.  

From diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation, Dayton Children’s orthopedic and sports medicine specialists specialize in caring for the whole athlete – physically, mentally and emotionally – so they can get back to doing what they love safely and confidently.  

benefits of pediatric care for sports injuries

Teens aren't just young adults! Children’s bodies continue to grow and develop until they hit puberty, which for some can extend into their early 20s. At Dayton Children’s, we are specially trained to diagnose and treat injuries with a young athlete’s long-term health in mind.

growth plates - a key difference

Growth plates are areas of soft cartilage at the end of long bones. This is where growth occurs. For girls, growth plates are typically fully formed between 13 and 15 years old, but for boys this can continue into their early 20s. Injuries that affect growth plates need a pediatric specialist for a few reasons:  

• A child’s bones, joints and muscles function differently than those of adults.  
• If not treated properly, an injury to a growth plate can impact a child’s future growth and development. 
• Pediatric specialists go through extra training to spot these subtle yet critical differences in growing bones.  

nutrition fuels performance and recovery

To play and compete at their best your child should incorporate all players in sports nutrition: offensive and defensive (and leave some players on the bench).  

• Offensive: Incorporate macronutrients to help your child to be the best athlete they can be. These are things like carbohydrates, protein and heart-healthy fat fuel.  
• Defensive: Keep your child’s athletic performance strong and prolonged with hydration, vitamins and minerals.  
• Players to keep on the bench: Stay away from supplements and energy drinks.  

When it comes to an athletic event, it’s important for your child’s nutrition to start before the event. Proper nutrition before, during and after supports performance and overall health, while decreasing the risk of nutrient deficiencies, injuries and slowed growth.

Follow this suggested plan for proper nutrition when it comes time for the big competition:  

• 3-4 hours before: Your child should eat a carbohydrate-rich meal before a game or sporting event 
• 30-60 minutes before: Have your child eat a quick snack like fruit with water.   
• During: Make sure your child stays hydrated! Water, carbohydrate-rich foods and sport drinks that contain electrolytes are important for staying hydrated and keeping their energy levels up.  
• 15-30 minutes after: Your child should have a mix of protein and carbohydrates after a game or practice.   

For more information on incorporating all the players of sports nutrition click here. 

At Dayton Children’s, we incorporate nutrition into your child’s treatment plan to ensure your young athlete is properly fueled.   

mental health is just as important as physical health

While competitive athletes may feel much of their schedule is taken up by their sport, it is crucial they carve out intentional time for routine self-care. This can be as simple as: 

• Scheduling 5-10 minutes every day to reflect using a journal  
• Practice mindfulness – it not only boosts your athlete’s outlook, but it also enhances awareness of their emotional and physical wellbeing.  

Athletes are just as human as everyone else and require regular maintenance and recovery to reach their long-term goals. 

• Emotional investment builds resilience: Athletes who prioritize their health find strength in making touch choices, like taking a break from their sport.  
  • Challenges of sitting out: Time away from their sport can lead to frustration, anxiety about falling behind and a sense of lost identity.  
• Teach self-awareness: Encourage your child to listen to their body and mind.  
• It’s okay to get help: Taking a break to get help could be the healthiest choice for your child.   

Our pediatric orthopedic and sports medicine specialists understand the psychological impact of injuries and provide age-appropriate support to help your child stay engaged and motivated during recovery. 

getting your child back in the game safely

The goal isn’t just a quick recovery – it's a safe and complete recovery. Getting back to the game too soon can lead to re-injury or long-term complications. We work with you and your child to create an individualized treatment plan that prioritizes healing while maintaining strength, mobility and confidence to get them back to doing what they love.  

At Dayton Children’s, we don’t just treat injuries – we care for the whole athlete. We believe every athlete deserves care just for them. When it comes to your child’s health, expertise matters.  

If an injury happens, we’re here to help. Easily schedule an orthopedics or sports medicine appointment online today.

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