Paediatric sports injuries.

BACKGROUND: Paediatric sports injuries are common. Fortunately, most children self-modulate their activity levels when injured until they recover, but some will seek medical help. Injury pattern varies with age, mechanism and the chosen sport.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to give a general overview of some of the more common paediatric sports injuries, including common patterns of pathogenesis, the effects of growth and biomechanics on tissue load, and issues particular to specific sports.

DISCUSSION: The immature body has different strength ratios of bone, muscle and tendon, and is constantly developing coordination and body awareness, which are affected by growth and neurological maturation. When planning the return to sport after an injury, the demands of the chosen sport, hours and periodisation of training, and requirements of schooling need to be considered. Bio-mechanical issues are best addressed early in treatment to improve return-to-activity outcomes.