Professional Pediatrics

Sports Injuries

Pediatrics in Roseville, CA

Sports Injuries services offered in Roseville, CA

If your child is among the more than 60 million children in the United States who play sports, they could experience a sports injury like a sprain or strain at some point. At Professional Pediatrics, outstanding pediatrician Benjamin Valdez, MD, and the experienced team offers pediatric care for all types of sports injuries in their Roseville, California, office. Call the office to schedule your child's apppointment today. 

Sports Injuries Q&A

What are sports injuries?

Sports injuries happen during, or as a result of, athletic activities. About one-third of childhood injuries are sports-related. 

From team sports such as basketball and football to individual ones like gymnastics and karate, Professional Pediatrics provides comprehensive medical care for children with sports injuries.

Why are children more prone to sports injuries than adults?

Children are more prone to sports injuries than adults because they’re still growing. For example, the growth plates — the soft cartilage at the ends of long bones are especially vulnerable to injuries because the cartilage doesn’t harden into bone until nearly the end of puberty.

Additionally, children are still developing the complex motor skills they need to perform well at sports, so they’re more vulnerable to injury until fully grown (after puberty).   

What are the most common sports injuries in children?

Some of the most common sports injuries affecting children include: 

  • Sprains
  • Strains
  • Shin splints
  • Growth plate injuries like Little League elbow and Sever’s disease
  • Cartilage injuries
  • Fractures
  • Tendinitis
  • Joint dislocations
  • Concussions

Each sports injury has many types, for example, sprains can occur in any ligament but are most common in the ankles, knees, and wrists. 

When does my child need to see a doctor for a sports injury?

If your child experiences symptoms like pain, bruising, swelling, weakness, or numbness, it’s important to contact Professional Pediatrics right away. 

Waiting a sports injury out can be dangerous, especially in kids. Continuing to walk, run, and play on an injury could lead to long-term issues and inhibit healthy development. The team can usually arrange a same-day sick visit for sports injuries.

How are sports injuries treated?

The Professional Pediatrics team examines your child’s injury and reviews their medical history. They gently evaluate movement and stability. Your child could need an X-ray, ultrasound, or other imaging test to fully assess the injury. 

The team develops a customized treatment approach for your child based on their injury. They may need:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Brace or cast
  • Physical therapy
  • Concussion management

The Professional Pediatrics team provides the best pediatrics sports medicine by focusing on your child’s safety and health at all times. They coordinate a return-to-sport schedule and recommend ways to prevent injury in the future. 

If your child has a sports injury, call the Professional Pediatrics office to book an appointment online today.