As a chiropractor specializing in pediatrics in Woodbury, MN, I see children for a wide variety of reasons. Some parents bring their children in for aches and pains, babies are seen for colic, and some just desire wellness care to keep their child healthy. One thing I try to stress with patients is that children in sports are especially prone to injuries, and more importantly overuse injuries. Just like adults, children who participate in competitive activities may experience a higher rate of musculoskeletal problems. If your child competes in sports, do not delay in getting that assessed in our office. Here’s why.
Injuries from overuse or repetitive injuries occur slowly from repeating the same movements over and over. Classic injuries occur to the shoulder or elbow with pitching, the knees in kids who participate in track or cross country, the wrists in gymnasts, and to the cervical spine in football players. Concussions are starting to be recognized more and occur at a high rate in child athletes. All of these injuries are best served by chiropractors who will optimize function and decrease the symptoms that will occur down the road if they are not taken care of. By addressing that sooner than later, your child will have a longer “career” in sports so let me help you achieve that goal by getting your child checked out today.
Parents, coaches, and trainers need to keep in mind that there are a few things that will cause repetitive injuries in kids:
- Improper injury prevention strategies
- Specializing in one sport
- Training regimens that are too rigorous
- Resuming activity too early after injury has occurred
- Poor nutrition and/or hydration
Chiropractic care for sports injuries
Repetitive injuries should be recognized and addressed early on so they do not require aggressive treatment down the road. If a 10-year old has a chronic knee problem from running, what will that knee be like at 40, 50, or 60 years of age? As a chiropractor in Woodbury, MN, I am trained to assess these problems, and correct the structural abnormalities, weaknesses, and nutritional deficiencies that may have contributed to them, in addition to recommending prevention strategies to keep your child active. Contact me today for a free consultation for your child.
Dr. Lori Jokinen, DC, CACCP, CFMP
Children who participate in competitive activities may experience a higher rate of injury.