Sports-related injuries in teenagers happen more often than one would think, which is why there is such a demand for adolescent physical therapy. While a small ankle sprain or pulled muscle may not seem like that big of a deal, patients should never skip working with a physical therapist, especially adolescents. Teenagers and children are much more prone to long-term damage after a sports injury because their bodies are often still developing, growing, and changing. Ignoring something that may seem small could have serious long-term effects.
There are a few common sports-related injuries that occur among teenagers, including sprains, muscle strains, and growth plate damage. Fortunately, adolescent physical therapy is available to those who are suffering. Keep reading to learn more about what is involved.
The following information highlights what a physical therapist may do when a teenager becomes injured from sports. Reviewing what follows can be helpful to both teenagers and their caregivers as they will become familiar with what the recovery process may look like.
The most common sports injuries that occur among teens and adolescents include muscle sprains, such as in the ankle or wrists; muscle strains, such as when a hamstring is pulled; and growth plate injuries. The latter occur when the end of the bone is not done developing, and it becomes damaged.
Physical therapists who work with adolescents and teenagers are trained to be more patient and understanding when it comes to the recovery process. They are also equipped with all the necessary resources to help encourage a speedy but healthy and safe recovery.
Muscle strains are approached in various ways, depending on the location, severity of pain, and the patient's range of motion. All cases will require rest, ice, and heat. The physical therapist may also perform therapeutic massages and recommend gentle exercises to restore function.
Sprains in the ankle or wrist also require the patient to rest the area for quite a while before any type of movement exercises are done. Slowly but surely, the physical therapist will do things such as move the wrist or ankle in all four directions and in a circular motion.
Depending on the severity, growth plate injuries may require a splint or cast. After that, the physical therapist will implement certain practices to help the injured area regain function. Examples include balance and range-of-motion exercises.
When suffering from any type of sports-related injury, it is recommended to consult with a physical therapist. The consultation process enables individuals to ask questions and go over any concerns that they have about the recovery process. Additionally, the physical therapist can evaluate the injury to determine the most suitable treatment approach. To find out more or to get scheduled for an appointment, reach out today!
Request an appointment here: https://ocptclinic.com or call Orange County Physical Therapy OCPT at (949) 299-0297 for an appointment in our Newport Beach office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Adolescent Physical Therapy in Newport Beach, CA.
The doctor will usually recommend a hip replacement when hip issues become inhibitive and reduce your quality of life. The hip is one of the body’s largest joints, bearing the weight and supporting movement. Replacing the hip with an artificial joint can help restore pain-free mobility and full function. The procedure is often used as…
An alternative treatment method for pain and circulation concerns, cupping is an ancient cultural practice that has recently become more mainstream. Cupping can be used in conjunction with other treatment modalities or performed alone. Supporters of this type of therapy believe the body can be purified and healed through regular sessions. Practitioners use different methods…
Physical therapy is typically recommended after many surgical procedures. Post-operative care often entails seeing a specialist who can administer physical therapy because it helps in many ways. Common medical specialists to see for post-operative physical therapy include chiropractors or sports medicine physicians. The type of procedure performed will determine what type of physical therapy is necessary…
When experiencing any type of injury, it is ideal to seek physical therapy. However, teenagers who engage in sports are much more prone to experiencing a muscle injury, such as a sprain or strain. When this occurs, a visit to the physical therapist is crucial. Here is a quick overview of how physical therapy can be…