Sports medicine focuses on injuries and health concerns linked to physical activity, and services can help people return to play. Young athletes have growing bones and joints, and their injuries may differ from adult injuries. When a child gets hurt during practice, a sports medicine provider evaluates the injury and outlines a treatment plan. Here are four services and what each one involves:
Immobilizing Injured Areas
After a sprain, fracture, or dislocation, the injured area typically needs support while tissues heal. Providers use splints, braces, casts, and walking boots for this purpose. A splint allows for swelling in the first days, and a cast offers firmer support later. The choice depends on the injury type, its location, and the athlete’s age.
Most devices stay on for several weeks, but the exact timeline varies by injury. If the device feels too tight or causes numbness, contact the clinic the same day. Follow-up visits allow the sports medicine provider to check alignment and healing progress. Keep the device dry unless the provider gives other instructions.
Providing Physical Therapy
Physical therapy targets strength, flexibility, and balance after an injury. To do this, a therapist begins with an assessment that measures range of motion and muscle strength. The results shape the exercise plan, and the therapist adjusts it at each visit.
As young bodies are still growing, therapists adapt exercises to the athlete’s size and development. Sessions typically include stretching and strength work, and some also include balance drills. Many plans add sport-specific movements near the end of treatment. A soccer player might practice cutting drills.
Some therapists assign home exercises, and people perform them between appointments. Parents play a practical role in tracking these exercises. When the athlete meets set strength and movement goals, the therapist discusses a gradual return to play. Skipping home exercises typically slows progress.
Prescribing Medications or Injections
Some injuries involve pain or swelling beyond the reach of rest and ice. Providers may recommend over-the-counter medicine first, or they may prescribe a stronger option. Each dose depends on the child’s weight, which the provider checks during the visit. Read the label and give each dose at the scheduled time, because injections are reserved for specific conditions. Ask the provider these questions before starting any medication or injection:
- What does this medication treat?
- How often does my child take it?
- Which side effects need a call to the clinic?
- Does it interact with other medicines my child takes?
Meeting School Requirements
Many schools require a yearly sports physical, and some leagues require one too. Before the provider signs the form, they review medical history and examine the heart, lungs, and joints. Bring the school’s form and a list of current medications to the appointment.
Schools also follow concussion return-to-play rules. If an athlete shows concussion symptoms, many states require written clearance from a licensed provider. The provider evaluates symptoms, and the athlete follows a step-by-step return plan. Typical documents from a sports medicine visit include the following:
- Signed preparticipation physical forms
- Concussion clearance letters
- Activity restriction notes for coaches
- Return-to-play clearance after an injury
Schedule Sports Medicine Services
If your child has a new sports injury or needs a physical, schedule a sports medicine visit. Orthopedic surgery clinics treat many injuries, and scheduled visits suit physicals and follow-ups. Bring insurance information, school forms, and a list of symptoms to the appointment. Call the clinic or book online to check current hours and wait times.
