Overuse Injuries (continued)

Initial treatment for overuse injuries includes R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, and elevation).

Be sure to consult your child's physician if there is a prolonged, visible deformity of the affected area, or if severe pain prevents use of the arm, leg, wrist, ankle, or knee.

Other treatment options may include:

• medications
• activity restrictions
• splint/cast
• crutches/wheelchair
• physical therapy (to stretch and strengthen the injured muscles, ligaments, and tendons)
• surgery (especially if the injury is reoccurring, there is persistent pain, or if a muscle, tendon, or ligament is badly torn)

Long-term outlook for children with overuse injuries:

Overuse injuries heal quite quickly in children. It is important that the child adhere to the activity restrictions and/or stretching and strengthening rehabilitation programs to prevent re-injury.

Most sports injuries are due to either traumatic injury or overuse of muscles or joints. Many sports injuries can be prevented with proper conditioning and training, wearing appropriate protective gear, and using proper equipment.

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