Adolescent Growth Plate Injuries May Be Related ...( Early diagno...),Health

Early diagnosis and immobilization of growth plate injuries is key to putting an adolescent athlete back in the game, according to a recent study published in the May/June issue of Sports Health: A Multidisciplinary Approach.

Rosemont, IL (Vocus) May 5, 2009 -- Early diagnosis and immobilization of growth plate injuries is key to putting an adolescent athlete back in the game, according to a recent study published in the May/June issue of Sports Health: A Multidisciplinary Approach.

“Overuse injuries in immature athletes are commonly seen in orthopaedic practices. Our analysis illustrates that early recognition and treatment of common overuse injuries such as stress fractures and 'Little League Elbow' can lead to quicker recovery and may prevent season or even career ending events from occurring,” said lead author, Todd J. Frush, MD, orthopaedic surgeon and clinical fellow at Cincinnati Sports Medicine.

The study analyzed more than 75 published clinical, outcome and biomechanical studies of adolescent growth plate and overuse injuries through 2008 in order to increase recognition and provide treatment recommendations.

Current research shows that adolescent athletes are more prone to overuse injuries, especially in the wrist, elbow and foot due to their immature musculoskeletal system and not completely fused growth plates. According to researchers, these growing regions in the growth plates allow for the impacts of certain sports such as gymnastics, running and baseball to be absorbed and cause injury at an increased rate.

“Even though growth plate overuse injuries occur frequently in adolescents, it is equally important for clinicians and parents to realize that not all overuse inju
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