Osteo treatment for overuse injuries in young sports people
Engaging in sports offers young individuals a fantastic opportunity to cultivate fitness, forge social connections, and grasp the essence of teamwork within the community. Yet, amid the exhilaration of sports, there lurks a common adversary: injuries.
We often encounter two primary types of injuries among young athletes: Acute/Traumatic Injuries (e.g., a sprained ankle) and Overuse Injuries (such as shin splints).
Overuse injuries arise when a body structure—be it bone, muscle, or tendon—suffers repetitive stress without adequate time for recuperation. These injuries are particularly prevalent among young athletes due to the rapid growth of bones outpacing muscle development, leading to heightened susceptibility and discomfort.
Common Overuse Injuries include:
Heel Pain (Sever’s Disease): Common in ages 8-14, especially in running-intensive sports on hard surfaces.
Knee Pain (Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease): Often seen during growth spurts and in sports involving running and jumping.
Shin Pain (Shin Splints): Frequently observed in sports requiring extensive running, exacerbated by factors like footwear and foot type (e.g., flat feet).
When confronted with pain, our osteopaths advise a proactive approach: "when in doubt, seek it out." Early intervention and appropriate management strategies can mitigate the severity of injuries, minimizing disruption to training and play.
Our skilled osteopaths diagnose the root cause of pain and collaborate with clients to devise tailored management plans for swift recovery. Treatment typically involves soft tissue massage, stretching, dry needling, and joint mobilization, supplemented by personalized strength and conditioning regimens.
To forestall overuse injuries, consider the following preventive measures:
Warm-up: Engage in dynamic warm-ups that mimic movements pertinent to your chosen sport, gradually escalating in intensity.
Cool Down/Stretching: Conclude activities with a gentle cooldown and subsequent stretching to alleviate muscle and bone stress.
Hydration: Maintain adequate hydration levels before, during, and after sport to keep muscles hydrated.
Rest: Allocate at least one rest day per week to allow for bodily recuperation.
Variety: Diversify activities to prevent stress patterns from developing; alternating sports can provide respite from specific stressors and promote overall resilience.
By prioritizing injury prevention and early intervention, young athletes can maximize their potential and enjoy sustained participation in sports with minimal disruptions.