At Metropolitan Pediatrics, we know that growing, developing bodies experience injuries differently than adult bodies. When your child suffers a sports-related injury, you want a pediatric specialist who understands these differences and knows how to address the unique needs of a young athlete. Injury prevention is an important part of a child’s experience with sports, and they can benefit from education by a doctor highly trained in pediatric sports medicine.
All children who participate in sports should inform their provider during their annual well exam. Annual checkups for teen athletes include a free sports physical with signed clearance forms that can be presented to their high school as needed.
Better Care for Child & Teen Athletes
The pediatric sports medicine specialists at Metro Pediatrics have knowledge, skills, and experience in diagnosing and delivering care to children and teens. They have completed an additional fellowship in Sports Medicine and obtained a Certificate of Added Qualification in Sports Medicine (CAQSM) through the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dual board-certified in pediatrics and pediatric sports medicine, these providers are an excellent choice for families with high-level athletes, future players, and physically active kids.
Common Conditions that Merit Sports Medicine Evaluation
Our children’s sports medicine doctors treat various pediatric sports injuries, concerns, and conditions. Parents and older teens may get a referral from their primary care physician or call directly for an appointment. Common conditions that merit a sports medicine evaluation can include:
- Overuse injuries
- Sprains
- Strains
- Dislocations
- Minor fractures
- Concussions
- Sports injury prevention
In addition to treating injuries, our pediatric sports medicine team can help with almost any kind of pain or physical limitations preventing kids from enjoying sports, exercise, or physical activity.
Diagnosing an Injury at Metro Pediatrics
Patients who believe they may have a physical injury are welcome to call for a same-day appointment. We’ll diagnose the extent of the condition and offer treatment options. Metro Pediatrics has bedside diagnostic ultrasound onsite to assess certain types of soft tissue and ligament tears and can provide bracing and splinting to promote healing of sprains, strains, tears, and minor fractures. If further tests are required, the patient may be referred to an imaging facility or orthopedic surgery center.
Concussions in Children
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that can affect brain function. Concussions can result from playing any sport, but happen more often from engaging in contact sports, like football, soccer, or lacrosse. There is also a risk of concussion from other activities, such as riding a bike or skateboarding. Any time an individual suffers a blow to the head, a concussion could develop.
Sports Diversification = Healthy, Active, Awesome Kids!
Intense training, competition, and pressure to succeed in one sport can be harmful to children, both physically and emotionally. Our pediatricians recommend a healthy balance of activities for children and teens. This helps them develop a wide range of skills, encourages them to try new things, fosters friendships among different groups of kids, and prevents overuse injuries and burnout.
Also, never underestimate the importance of rest! Athletes need downtime to recover their bodies and minds, too.
Our Pediatric Sports Medicine Providers
