Overuse Injuries In Children and Adolescents

In brief: Athletic injuries among children often fall into the category of overuse, with mechanisms similar to overuse injuries in adults. However, the implications for young, growing athletes are much different because the growth plates are involved, resulting in such problems as traction apophysitis and Little League elbow. Early, appropriate intervention, which sometimes includes cessation of certain athletic activity, can prevent potential long-term complications in growing athletes.