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6 Tips to Help Kids Avoid Repetitive Stress Injuries

By Mike Hoenig, MD, Orthopaedic Associates, 09/05/17, 10:45AM PDT

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Sports-participation promotes physical and emotional wellness in children but too much physical activity can lead to injury. 

Repetitive stress injury, also known as overuse injury, is becoming a significant concern for orthopaedic doctors—especially at a time where the number of duel-sport athletes continues to grow. 

Because of this, in my work as an orthopaedic specialist, I’ve seen this type of injury become commonplace, with overuse injuries affecting muscles, ligaments, tendons, bones and growth plates. 

It’s important to remember that young athletes are still growing—often at a fast rate—putting them at a greater risk of developing an injury that could potentially lead to long-term health problems. 

Overuse injuries attribute to approximately 50 percent of all pediatric sports-related injuries, but there are simple steps parents, coaches and even young athletes themselves can take in preventing them: