Keep the Season Injury Free
As summer activities ramp up, we often see a spike in injuries—especially in active kids who play sports. From impromptu soccer games to day camp sports and family bike rides, the risk of sprains, strains, and fractures rises with the temperature.
Here’s what parents need to know—and what you can do to help keep your kids to have fun all summer long.
Most Common Summer Injuries in Kids
- Ankle Sprains & Growth Plate Injuries: Quick pivots and uneven surfaces often result in sprains, and in younger kids, these can involve the growth plates, requiring extra care.
- Knee Pain (Osgood-Schlatter Disease): Common in active pre-teens and teens, especially those in running and jumping sports like basketball and soccer.
- Shoulder Strains & Little League Elbow: Overhead movements like pitching, swimming, or swinging a racket can strain still-developing joints and muscles.
- Wrist & Arm Fractures: Falls from scooters, skateboards, and playgrounds often result in fractures, especially when kids instinctively catch themselves with an outstretched hand.
- Concussions: While less common, any fall, bump, or jostle to the head during play should be monitored closely.
Prevention Starts with Preparation
Help your kids avoid injury by building smart habits into their summer routine:
- Warm Up & Cool Down: Encourage 5–10 minutes of stretching or light cardio before and after activity—even if it’s “just play.”
- Hydrate Often: Dehydration can affect muscle performance and increase cramping and fatigue.
- Rotate Activities: Avoid repetitive motion by switching up sports and games throughout the week.
- Know Their Limits: Growing bodies need rest. Teach kids to listen to their bodies and take breaks when needed.
- Use the Right Gear: Make sure helmets, shoes, and protective gear are properly fitted and in good condition.
When to Call a Doctor
Not every ache needs a trip to the orthopedist, but here are signs that warrant a professional look:
- Persistent pain or swelling lasting more than a day
- Limping or favoring one side during movement
- Pain at or near a joint that worsens with activity
- Decreased range of motion
Experts in Treating Young Athletes
Kids’ bodies are still growing, which makes them more vulnerable to certain sports injuries than adults. Without the right care, overuse injuries and strains can turn into long-term problems that stick around well into adulthood. That’s why it’s so important to get expert treatment early.
Our team specializes in caring for young athletes—from minor sprains to more complex injuries. We not only help kids recover and get back to doing what they love, but we also work with families on ways to prevent future injuries. That includes guidance on proper training techniques, rest and recovery, and sport-specific tips to keep growing bodies safe.
World-Class Expertise, Closer to Home
With five locations, world-class orthopedic care for your kids is closer than you think.
