Author: esw

What is an overuse injury?

To put it plainly, overuse injuries are often caused by repetitive athletic motions, like pitching in baseball, running on hard surfaces, or competitive swimming. 

For young athletes, the repetitive stress that overtraining puts on muscles and tendons can disrupt bone growth and cause pain, inflammation, and a critical need to rest the affected area.

What causes overuse injuries in kids and teens

When putting physical effort into training, practicing, and games, players tend to use the same muscle groups over and over. Without periods of adequate rest and recovery, overtraining can lead to musculoskeletal injuries and pain. If these conditions continue to be left untreated, they can become more serious over time. Pain endured by active youths can also have a detrimental psychological impact, if kids can no longer play at the level they’d worked so hard to reach

Some children will play a sport on multiple teams during a season, which is a great way to explore interests and learn teamwork—but it can also lead to excessive training. 

However, it’s not just a busy schedule that can lead to overuse injuries: Lack of conditioning (training the body for physical activity), a prior injury left untreated, and natural growth spurts can all impact how a child’s body reacts to athletics. 

Common overuse injuries in children

Some overuse injuries have common nicknames, like Little League Shoulder, a condition typically caused by overhead throwing that can lead to inflammation of growth plates—areas of cartilage that allows bones to grow.

Here are some additional examples of pediatric overuse injuries:

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s Disease is an inflammatory condition of the heel’s growth plate, and a common source of heel pain, especially after running or jumping. It occurs when the Achilles tendon pulls on the heel, leading to swelling in the growth plate.

Shin Splints

Running on hard surfaces or the use of improper footwear are common causes of this condition, which is marked by shin pain and tenderness. Shin splints occur when repetitive stress is put on the shinbone and its attached connective tissues.

Tennis Elbow 

Also known as Golfer’s Elbow, this condition—true to its name—is caused by overusing elbow muscles, leading to a partial tear in the tendon that connects the forearm muscle to the bone. This can bring on swelling, soreness, and pain in the elbow, forearm, and wrist.

Swimmer’s Shoulder 

This is an umbrella diagnosis for a series of shoulder overuse injuries, including impingement syndrome, rotator cuff tendinitis, inflammation, and weaknesses of the shoulder from repeated stress on tendons.

Osgood-Schlatter Disease

This painful condition of the knee occurs when thigh muscles pull on the patellar tendon located just below the kneecap, which then pulls on the growth plate of the shinbone, leading to swelling and irritation. This is sometimes caused by growth spurts and made worse by running and jumping. 

Jumper’s Knee 

Another overuse injury that causes tenderness below the knee and upper shin area, Jumper’s Knee is typically caused by repetitive motions that pull on the patellar tendon, causing swelling and tissue damage. 

Stress Fractures

This type of fracture occurs when too much stress is being placed on the bones, due to excessive activity after muscle fatigue. Without protection from muscles, a small fracture can occur in the bone.

Learn more about specific pediatric overuse injuries at our Health Information Library.

What are the symptoms of overuse injuries?

Pain is an obvious indication of injury, however, there are other specific signs and symptoms to note: 

• Pain that increases with activity
• Pain that  increases over time
• Pain that decreases with rest
• Swelling in the affected area
• Overcompensation of other limbs due to pain
• Mental fatigue and frustration

To diagnose an overuse injury, your sports medicine specialist will need to know the intensity and frequency of the repeated activity, then provide a physical exam to pinpoint the pain. Imaging may also need to be done. 

If you’re in the Los Angeles area, we recommend an appointment with our Sports Medicine team. 

We specialize in helping young athletes get back in the game, whether that’s team sports like soccer or football, individual sports like skateboarding or gymnastics, or PE class in school. Our team of experts tailor treatments to each child’s unique needs, addressing all aspects of our patients’ journey to recovery

Take a virtual tour of our Center for Sports Medicine.

What’s the best way to treat an overuse injury?

Rest is typically the first step toward recovery. That includes restricting or stopping athletic activities, depending on the severity of pain or fracture, for weeks or months according to a doctor’s treatment plan. For some overuse injuries, the doctor may recommend the use of a splint, cast, boot, or crutches. 

After a period of rest, physical therapy can assist in providing more flexibility and strength to the injured area. ‍

Have you heard about LuskinOIC’s Return to Sports program?

Our Sports Medicine team has revolutionized athletic recovery by using cutting-edge research to assess the physical and mental/emotional readiness for young athletes to return to their favorite activities post-injury.

From evaluating limb symmetry to analyzing neuromotor control, our expert physicians guide athletes and families toward a safe return to the sports and activities they love. 

At LuskinOIC, it’s not just about having the most innovative technology—it’s also about accessible expertise, often provided free of charge, making us the top choice for an athlete to get back in the game

Meet our sports medicine team!

Can overuse injuries be prevented?

The answer is yes! With proper attention to adequate rest, the right footwear and gear, and conditioning, you decrease the risk of an overuse injury.

While it might be fun to sign a child up for a town sport, school sport, and travel league all at once, keep in mind that this does increase their risk for overuse injuries.

Want to learn more about your child’s limits and abilities? LuskinOIC works directly with coaches, athletic trainers, and medical teams to create partnerships between schools and our Center for Sports Medicine. 

These partnerships lead to fewer injuries and faster recoveries for student athletes in our communities. They also help ensure that when injuries occur, kids have access to the care they need, often from the start with orthopaedic urgent care. Learn more here.

Here in the LA Region, there are many opportunities for youth athletes to play sports year-round, both indoors and out. Although the availability of year-round sports offers many advantages for kids and teens, it’s important to watch for symptoms of overtraining or signs of injuries from accidents on the court or in the field. 

In this guide to injuries that commonly occur during those winter season sports, we’ll share some common health concerns to watch for—and how to prevent them.

Common winter season youth sports

There’s no doubt that soccer is one of the most popular youth sports played in the LA region, with some clubs offering winter leagues or indoor games. Similarly, basketball leagues play this time of year in schools and rec leagues. The beginning of the year is also a popular time for youth volleyball, competitive swimming, and gymnastics.

While there are countless benefits to participating in youth sports—from fitness to teambuilding skills, and in some cases, the start of lifelong friendships—excessive running, jumping, throwing, falling, and pivoting can wear on an athlete’s body over time, even at a young age.

What are some common injuries sustained by youth athletes in winter?

Here at our LA-based pediatric orthopaedic facility, we often find the following sports injuries:

Sprained Ankles

Whether skateboarding on a mild day, snowboarding at a nearby mountain, or sustaining an injury during an indoor soccer game, sprained ankles are one of the most common youth sports injuries, caused by overstretching or tearing a ligament. 

Common symptoms related to an ankle sprain are:

• Outside of ankle pain, tenderness, swelling or bruising
• Painful weight bearing
• Stiffness or inability to fully move ankle

Prevention tips: 

Perform proper stretching and warm up exercises, and engage in ankle strengthening exercises. Also, wear well-fitting shoes when exercising. If your child has previously had ankle sprains, consider ankle tape or a lace up ankle brace.

Learn more about sprained ankles in our health information library.

Knee Injuries

Sprains and strains are common at the knee, too, and can lead to long-term injuries if not treated correctly, especially after playing sports like hockey, basketball, and gymnastics.

Common knee injuries for youth athletes include:

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tears

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four major ligaments in the knee and provides stability. A common ACL injury is a tear, which may occur during sports that involve sudden stops and pivots, like during a soccer or basketball game. 

ACL tear symptoms include:

• Immediate, rapid swelling
• Pain
• Inability to weight bear
• Unable to move knee
• Popping sound or sensation at time of injury
• Feeling of knee “giving out” when in use

Prevention tips: 

Exercises to strengthen the hamstrings and quadriceps are key. Have athletes practice proper landing techniques, too, but be sure to avoid over-training. Appropriate footwear is beneficial, as well.

Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter disease is an overuse condition of the knee that causes pain and swelling at the growth plate below the knee. Like other pediatric overuse injuries, it often occurs due to repeated stress from activities like soccer, basketball, or gymnastics. 

Common symptoms include:

• Pain and swelling at the bump below the knee
• Pain when running or jumping
• Weakness in the quadriceps muscles

Prevention tips:

The most important thing to do is to have your child limit activity as soon as he or she notices the painful bump on the top of the shin bone. Proper warm-up and stretching exercises of the thigh, hamstring, and calf muscles may help prevent Osgood-Schlatter disease.

Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper’s Knee)

The patella is the kneecap, and patellar tendonitis is a knee injury characterized by inflammation of the patellar tendon and overuse. The patellar tendon is located at the front of the knee between the kneecap (patella) and shinbone (tibia) and allows your child to straighten their knee so they can run or jump. When this tendon becomes inflamed, it’s called patellar tendonitis. You might also hear it referred to as “jumper’s knee” and is a common condition for youth athletes who play volleyball and basketball.

Common symptoms related to patellar tendonitis are:

• Pain, usually felt between the kneecap and where the tendon attaches to the shinbone
• Dull ache
• Swelling
• Tenderness

To prevent patellar tendinitis, it is important to incorporate proper warm-up and stretching routines before exercise, focus on strengthening the quadriceps and hamstrings, and avoid excessive jumping or running without adequate rest. If symptoms arise, rest and physical therapy can help manage the condition.

Prevention tips: 

Perform warm up and cool down stretches, especially the thigh muscles, and do exercises to strengthen thigh muscles Avoid playing or practicing on hard surfaces, like concrete, and avoid single-sport specialization (which may cause overuse injuries). 

Learn About Our Dynamic Injury Prevention Program For Knee Stabilization

This DIP Program consists of a warm-up, stretching, strengthening, plyometrics, and sport specific agilities to address potential deficits in the strength and coordination of the stabilizing muscles around the knee joint. Learn More or Watch Our Video

Concussions

Whether your child plays a contact sport or not, concussions can still be a significant concern whenever there’s potential for falls or collisions. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury; while properly fitting helmets are crucial for sports like hockey, in sports where helmets aren’t necessary, like basketball, concussion prevention and awareness are still valuable. While not always obvious, concussions should be taken seriously as they can have long-term consequences on a child’s health and cognitive function.

‍Concussion symptoms include:

• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness and balance problems
• Fatigue
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Neck pain and stiffness

Prevention Tips:

Wear appropriate headgear and be sure that coaches are trained in managing collisions and head injuries.

Wrist Injuries

Training young athletes on how to fall safely—by using their body to cushion the impact instead of relying on their hands—can reduce the likelihood of wrist injuries.

Common wrist injuries include:

Fractures: Although broken bones might not always be obvious, typical signs of a pediatric wrist fracture may include an inability to move the wrist or hand, pain and swelling in the affected area, bruising or redness in the wrist or forearm, and deformity of the wrist, hand, or forearm.

Sprains and Strains: Wrist sprains are most often caused by the child falling on an outstretched arm, or a similar impact from contact sports that forces the wrist to hyperextend and tears the surrounding soft tissue and ligaments. Common signs of a wrist sprain include swelling, bruising, pain or tenderness, and weakness. 

Gymnast Wrist: Gymnast wrist is a repetitive stress injury that causes pain and inflammation on the thumb side of the wrist. It usually develops when a gymnast increases training intensity or moves to a higher competitive level.

Learn About LuskinOIC’s Sports Medicine Program

At LuskinOIC, we specialize in helping young athletes get back in the game by tailoring our treatments to each child’s unique needs. Our approach goes beyond treating tendonitis or meniscus tears and providing physical therapy; we provide accessible expertise, often free of charge, making us the top choice for active families.

Learn more about our sports medicine program and meet the team here!

We’re lucky to be located in a region where climates tend to be mild during winter, yet in just a short drive to the mountains we have the opportunity to enjoy snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. Whether your child is new to such activities or an experienced enthusiast, accidents can happen. Some injuries may occur suddenly and unexpectedly, while others develop over time. Luckily, many can be avoided through the right prevention methods. 

Common winter injuries 

Concussions

As a skier or snowboarder, it’s always a good idea to protect your head when gliding downhill, over jumps, and over long distances, as a concussion can occur from accidental falls or collisions. A type of traumatic brain injury, any suspected concussions should be taken seriously; look for signs of headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, sensitivity to light and noise, and neck pain. Concussions can best be prevented by wearing a properly fitting helmet and by taking lessons from a trained instructor to learn proper techniques.

Safety Tip: How to Fit a Helmet

Taken from our Helmet Safety Guide:

• Measure: Measure your child’s head for size. Have them try on several helmets to find the best fit.
• Fit: With the helmet on, ensure your child can see and hear clearly. Adjust the sizing pads or fit ring for a snug, comfortable fit.
• Position: The helmet should sit level on the head, low on the forehead—one to two finger-widths above the eyebrows.
• Adjust Straps: Set the side straps to form a “V” shape around the ears and lock the slider if possible.
• Secure: Buckle the chinstrap and tighten it so that only one or two fingers fit under the strap.
• Test Fit: Have your child open their mouth wide like a big yawn. The helmet should pull down slightly on their head.

Spinal Injuries

Collisions and falls can also have a major impact on young spines. Early learners in an ice skating rink are more prone to falls and collisions onto the hard ice as they develop their skills and confidence. But skiers and boarders are also at risk. Besides having the proper gear, be sure to make time for warming up prior to these high-intensity activities. 

Shoulder Injuries

A dislocation of the shoulder joint happens when the bones making up your shoulder joint are moved apart so that the joint no longer functions. In severe cases, ligaments, tendons, and nerves also can be stretched and injured. The main symptom is pain in your shoulder and upper arm that is made worse by movement. Depending on the sport, prevention may include wearing layers of clothing (snowboarding) or padding (ice hockey) to help cushion any fall that may be likely. Avoid exacerbating the injury by avoiding the same sport until full recovery of motion and strength in the arm.

Knee Injuries

Sprains, strains, and overuse of the knee can lead to long-term injuries if not treated correctly. Common knee injuries include:

Patella Subluxation or Dislocation

The patella is the kneecap. When the kneecap slides out of position, it is called patella subluxation or dislocation. Learn More

Patellar Tendonitis

The patellar tendon is located at the front of the thigh and extends your knee allowing your child to run or jump. When this tendon becomes inflamed, it is called patellar tendonitis. You might also hear it referred to as “jumper’s knee.” Learn More

Patellofemoral Syndrome

The patellofemoral joint is where the patella and thigh bone meet at the front of the knee. When this joint is inflamed it is called patellofemoral syndrome. It is also known as runner’s knee. Learn More

Ankle Injuries: Sprains or Fractures

Treatment for ankle fractures, or broken ankles, varies depending on the severity and type of fracture. This can range from a supportive boot to surgical intervention for more severe cases. An ankle sprain happens when a ligament gets stretched or torn. Ankle injury prevention includes wearing secured, proper footwear for that particular sport and making time for warming up and stretching as needed. For children who’ve had previous ankle injuries, consider ankle tape or a lace up ankle brace to prevent recurrence. 

When Injuries Occur

Learn About LuskinOIC’s Urgent Care Center

At LuskinOIC’s Urgent Care Center, orthopaedic doctors and staff provide essential urgent and trauma medical care to children with broken bones and musculoskeletal injuries. Rather than waiting longer in an emergency room to see a general physician, walk in and see a pediatric orthopaedic specialist in just a few minutes.

Learn more here!

Here’s everything you need to know about cast care for your child’s broken bone.If your child recently got a cast for a broken bone, they’re not alone, as fractures are the fourth most common injury in young children. At LuskinOIC, we apply more than 32,000 casts annually, helping kids heal and get back to what they love.

Curious about what to expect during this time of healing? Luckily, children do tend to heal faster from broken bones than adults in most cases, but proper cast care is key. Here’s what you need to know about keeping casts clean and protected, and ensuring your child heals quickly and properly.

Understanding Casts: What are casts for?

First, we’ll go over a little background information. Simply put, a cast helps to stabilize and protect fractured bones and their surrounding soft tissue while they heal. Typically made of plaster or fiberglass that covers from the joint below the break to the joint above the break, each cast is custom made to fit its recipient for an extended period of time. They require the care of a specialist in order to remove. 

It’s important to note that a cast is different from a splint, which is usually fabric or plastic, covers only part of the limb, and is easier to remove.

What to expect when a cast is applied:

First, a protective padding of cotton or synthetic material is placed to create a barrier between skin and the cast. 

Next, the cast material will be soaked and then placed carefully over the padding by a doctor or technician. 

If the injured limb is showing significant swelling while the cast is being applied, plastic spacers may be used to split the cast and accommodate the swollen area. Spacers allow for adjustments as swelling decreases over time. 

If you notice swelling, keep the limb elevated as much as possible for the next two to three days.‍ If swelling does occur, here are some ways to relieve symptoms.

Elevation: Keep the injured limb above heart level. 

Movement: Gently wiggle toes and fingers to help reduce swelling and prevent stiffness.

Ice: Apply a cold pack to the cast or splint to reduce swelling, ensuring a layer of absorbent material separates the ice from the cast to keep it dry. 

Please note: Severe swelling can lead to circulation issues or nerve damage. ‍

If symptoms occur, visit either our Urgent Care Center or a local emergency room.

‍

How to care for your cast:

Here are five important notes to remind your child.

1. Plaster casts must remain dry to prevent cast or skin damage. While bathing, keep casts sealed in a protective sleeve. (Ask your doctor for more advice.)

2. Casts may become itchy, but avoid the temptation to use objects inserted through the cast opening. 

3. Keep the cast free of powders, dirt, and sand.

4. Do not trim or remove cast edges yourself; contact your doctor if adjustments are needed.

5. Do not attempt to remove the cast yourself! A doctor or technician will use a special saw that vibrates (not rotates) to reduce the risk of cuts. 

Healing time: How long does a cast need to be on?

It typically takes about four to eight weeks for pediatric fractures to heal, although severe fractures can take up to three months. Your child’s doctor will give an estimate appropriate for their specific injury and it’s important to stick to that treatment plan.

Want to learn more about broken bones? We discuss everything from symptoms to rehabilitation in our Parents’ Guide to Understanding Childhood Fractures.

What to expect after a cast is removed:

Even after the fracture heals, your child may still experience some stiffness and soreness—but this will improve over time. You may also notice some dry and flaky skin or light, excess hair growth, but this will return to normal shortly after.

Your child’s doctor will also offer advice on returning to sports or play, noting any restrictions, as the healed limb regains its mobility and strength. 

Learn more about LuskinOIC’s expert care for pediatric fractures:

Did you know that the Ahmanson Foundation Fracture Center at LuskinOIC is one of the country’s largest pediatric orthopaedic fracture centers? As LA’s experts at treating broken bones in children, our care begins with diagnosis and spans the entire recovery process. Learn more about the center here.

Stretching offers so many health benefits, including better flexibility, increased blood flow, and injury prevention. While we often associate stretching with exercise or sports injury prevention, children and teens can benefit greatly from a daily stretching routine. Whether they’re a youth athlete or not, all kids can benefit from increased range of motion, improved posture, and physical activity.

Here’s what you need to know about helping your child develop a stretching routine, including what daily stretches to do—and how to do them safely.

Building the Habit of a Daily Stretching Routine

Helping Kids Understand the Benefits of Stretching

A daily stretching routine for kids starts with building small habits and by helping them understand the benefits. Explain how better flexibility means healthier muscles and joints and better coordination for sports, which can reduce the chance of injuries. 

There are myriad benefits for mental health, as well, including relaxation, stress reduction, anxiety management, and enhanced focus. 

Developing New Habits

When getting started, it’s important to take it slow to build flexibility and stamina. During this time, you’ll want to help ensure proper form.

Here are some helpful tips for encouraging a daily stretching routine:

Keep it consistent. 

Whether winding down before bed, relaxing after the school day, or developing a morning routine, try to establish a consistent time for daily (or near-daily) practice.

Engage their imagination.

Stretching can be fun! Encourage kids to use their imagination by pretending they’re an animal or floating in space—fun ways to create body awareness. 

Start small.

Shorter periods of stretching are ideal both for younger kids with short attention spans, and for beginners who are just starting to enhance their flexibility. 

Stretching Safely: How To Do It Right

Let’s start with some basics.

Stretches can be categorized as “static”, which refers to holding a stretch for a certain amount of time, or “dynamic” which involves active movements instead of a held ending position.

‍

Static stretches are great for post-sports or exercise relief, ensuring muscles don’t become tight. Dynamic stretches are typically done during warm-ups as a way to prepare muscles for activity. 

Safety Tips

How can you tell if it’s safe to stretch? 

For one, a physical exam from your child’s pediatrician can determine if there are any particular stretches to avoid due to past injuries or health concerns.

A sports medicine specialist can also offer advice on creating a stretching routine that works best for youth athletes.

It’s important to remember that warm-ups are key, as cold muscles are more likely to strain. A short five- to 10-minute walk should be enough to wake up those muscle groups. 

Listening to Your Body to Avoid Overdoing It

It’s impressive to see advanced athletes, yoga practitioners, or friends with different body types hold a deep stretch, but it’s important for kids to remember that it’s not a competition. The goal is to stretch only as far as comfort allows; they should not be in pain. 

And if they’re building a daily stretching routine, it’s best to avoid long sessions each day. Short routines still build progress over time and too much overstretching can put stress on muscles, ligaments, and joints.

Have you read our blog post about Pediatric Overuse Injuries? Learn more here.

Five Types of Stretches to Improve Daily Health

Standing Quad Stretch

This stretch is great for quadriceps muscles, which can create better flexibility and support in knee and hip joints.

How to do it:

• For balance, place one hand on a wall. 
• Grab your left foot and pull behind, reaching your heel toward your glutes.
• Hold for five seconds, rest, and repeat on the right side.
• Repeat up to five times.

Watch our Standing Quad Stretch explainer video.

Lunges

Forward lunges and side lunges are great ways to increase flexibility of the hips.

Forward lunges: 

• Kneel on the left knee, placing the right leg forward at a 90-degree angle. 
• Keeping your back straight, lunge forward and hold for up to five seconds.
• Reset, rest, and repeat on the opposite leg. 
• Repeat for each leg three times (work up to five sets over time).

Side lunges:

• Standing with legs apart, bend the left knee.
• While keeping your back and right leg straight, lean toward the left and hold for up to five seconds.
• Reset, rest, and repeat on the opposite leg. 
• Repeat for each leg three times (work up to five sets over time).

Watch our explainer video on Lunges here.

Cobra Yoga Stretch

This common yoga stretch is a great way to release tension from your chest and upper back, as well as stretch your ab muscles and hip flexors.

How to do it:

• Start by lying flat on your stomach with your hands on the ground just past your shoulders. 
• Slowly press your chest upward, keeping your back relaxed, until your arms are straightened.
  • Note: Your hips should remain in contact with the ground. 
• Relax your head and neck and hold the pose for 15-30 seconds, breathing slowly, and then releasing your chest slowly back to the ground. 
• Rest in place for five to 10 seconds.

Learn more about yoga for strength and flexibility!

Seated Hamstring Stretch

Strong yet flexible hamstrings are important for injury prevention, especially for those who enjoy sports like soccer, tennis, running/track, and basketball. Hamstring stretches assist with range of motion in hips and knees and can even help your posture.

How to do it:

• Start by sitting with your back straight. 
• Extend one leg and bend the other, knee pointed out and foot against your extended thigh.
• Keeping your legs and back straight, slowly reach toward your ankle.
• Hold—do not bounce—for up to 10 seconds. 
• Repeat  2 to 3 times.

This can be done lying down, too; watch our video on how to perform a Lying Hamstring Stretch here.

High Knee/Knee Hug Stretch

Also known as “knees to chest”, this gentle stretch can help loosen muscles in the lower back and glutes. It’s a relaxing stretch you can do any time of day.

How to do it: 

• Lie on your back.
• Bend your knees up to your chest and hold them, keeping your spine on the floor.
• Hold this position for 15-20 seconds and then release.
• Repeat three to five times.

Watch our Knee To Chest explainer video here.

Additional beneficial stretches for youth athletes:

In addition to the above stretches, young athletes should pay extra attention to their hamstrings, groin, hip flexors, shoulders, and quadriceps.

These areas are commonly pulled or injured after athletic activity that involves jumping, reaching, pivoting, contact sports, and more if proper stretching and warm-ups aren’t engaged. 

A coach, athletic trainer, or trained sports medicine practitioner can steer your child in the right direction.

Here are some additional tips on safe stretching.

Learn About LuskinOIC’s Sports Medicine Program

At LuskinOIC, we specialize in helping young athletes get back in the game by tailoring our treatments to each child’s unique needs. Our approach goes beyond treating tendonitis or meniscus tears and offering physical therapy; we provide accessible expertise, often free of charge, making us the top choice for active families.

Also with youth athletes in mind, we developed our Dynamic Injury Prevention Program (DIPP) for knee stabilization. This program consists of warm-up, stretching, strengthening, plyometrics, and sport-specific agilities to address potential deficits in the strength and coordination of the stabilizing muscles around the knee joint. Learn more about the program here or watch our video. 

Learn more about our sports medicine program in general here.

Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine where instead of a straight alignment, the spine may curve sideways, forming an “S” or “C” shape. This condition can affect people of any age, but it often becomes noticeable during adolescence when the spine is growing rapidly.

The severity of scoliosis varies, and it can cause a range of symptoms, including uneven shoulders or hips, back pain, and in more severe cases, difficulty breathing if the curvature affects the chest cavity. Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing scoliosis effectively. Treatment options depend on factors such as the degree of curvature, the cause of scoliosis, and the age of the individual.

LuskinOIC is home to some of the world’s leading experts in the field of scoliosis, pediatric orthopaedics, and spinal deformity surgery. Our team, led by President and CEO of LuskinOIC, Dr. Anthony Scaduto, is renowned for leading-edge research and pioneering innovative techniques that are redefining what is possible in pediatric spinal care.

Detecting scoliosis in your child

Children with scoliosis don’t always display the same symptoms. Here are a few common symptoms you can look for at home:

• One shoulder blade juts out more than the other
• Ribs stick out more prominently on one side
• Tilted or uneven shoulders—may make clothing appear crooked
• Uneven waistline or hip bones—can make pant legs appear uneven
• Your child’s head doesn’t appear centered with the rest of the body

What causes scoliosis in children?

Scoliosis appears in thousands of children and is determined by your child’s genetic makeup. External factors such as injury, heavy backpacks or bad posture do not cause scoliosis.

The most common type of scoliosis is known as idiopathic, which means there is no definite cause of the condition. Idiopathic scoliosis typically runs in families, affects girls eight times more often than boys, and is often detected just before or during a child’s adolescence.

A child may be born with scoliosis—called congenital or infantile scoliosis—and can change as a child grows. For some kids, the curve becomes straighter on its own. For others, the curve becomes more pronounced, and treatment is needed.

Some children develop scoliosis later in life due to another health condition—such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy. This is called neuromuscular scoliosis. Sometimes neurological or muscular diseases can cause weakness or imbalance in the spinal muscles, which raises the risk of developing a curved spine.

Possible causes include:

• Differences in leg lengths
• Infection
• Inherited conditions
• Injury
• Nervous system problems like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy
• Tumors

Although the exact cause is usually unknown, scoliosis can run in families. So, if one of your children has scoliosis, it’s a good idea to have their siblings screened for it.

Trust LuskinOIC’s Scoliosis Center to help your child stand tall.

LuskinOIC’s Scoliosis Center has the expertise and leading-edge technology to diagnose, manage and treat your child’s scoliosis—whether the curve is mild and just needs monitoring, or severe enough that surgery is the best option.

Our dedicated team at LuskinOIC Scoliosis Center is ready to provide:

• Diagnostic testing—including low-radiation X-rays and 3D imaging software
• Ongoing monitoring for mild curves
• Bracing for moderate curves
• Growth-friendly treatment for young patients with scoliosis
• Surgery for severe curves
• Follow-up care during and after recovery
• Access to physical therapy

Tailored scoliosis treatment plans at LuskinOIC

Dr. Scaduto and the experts at LuskinOIC create a treatment plan that’s tailored to your child’s unique needs. In milder cases, we may simply monitor the spine to make sure the curve doesn’t worsen. More severe cases may require treatment to prevent your child from developing issues with breathing or heart function. This could include bracing or surgery.

As children grow, the severity of their scoliosis can change. If the curve increases, treatment may become necessary. That’s why it’s important to have a physician regularly check your child’s spine.

‍The 3 main scoliosis treatment options are:

• Monitoring – If your child’s spinal curve is less than 25 degrees, we may recommend appointments every 6 to 12 months to monitor the spine. We’ll also schedule follow-up X-rays to make sure the curve doesn’t increase as your child grows.
• Bracing (Scoliosis & Kyphosis Bracing) – Bracing is often used to treat children and teens whose scoliosis is between 25 and 45 degrees. While it may not correct the curve in your child’s spine, bracing can stop the curve from getting worse. Our custom-designed braces allow as much movement, comfort and flexibility as possible. We also offer an innovative bracing treatment for younger patients called a Mehta cast.
• Surgery – If your child’s spinal curvature is 45 degrees or more, or if bracing doesn’t help, we may recommend surgery. Unlike monitoring and bracing, scoliosis surgery—called spinal fusion—can correct the curve and prevent it from returning or worsening.

‍Surgeons at LuskinOIC will realign the curve, then fuse the section of straightened vertebrae. Once fused, that part of the spine will no longer grow. The fused vertebrae will heal together as if they are 1 bone.

Our surgeons are highly skilled in complex procedures, including:

• Anterior, posterior and interbody spinal fusion: Spinal fusion is surgery to permanently connect two or more vertebrae in the spine, eliminating motion between them. This surgery is often used for children with scoliosis.
• Cervical spine surgery: Cervical spine surgery is a type of neck surgery that involves removing a damaged disc to relieve spinal cord or nerve root pressure.
• Growing rods (MAGEC): MAGnetic Expansion Control (MAGEC) is a surgical treatment for early-onset or idiopathic scoliosis. During the procedure, magnetic rods are implanted. After, an external remote control is used to adjust the rods to help minimize the progression of scoliosis and minimize the need for repeat surgeries.
• Lumbar spine surgery: Lumbar spine surgery is a type of surgery used to treat compressed nerves in the lower (lumbar) spine. It is often used to treat scoliosis.
• Titanium rib procedure (VEPTR): Vertical expandable prosthetic titanium ribs (VEPTR) is used for the treatment of childhood deformities of the thorax.

‍Recovering from scoliosis surgery and scoliosis management

Every child’s recovery is unique, but generally they will return to all normal activities—including contact sports—in 6 to 12 months.

‍Children under the age of 3 may undergo serial casting to correct scoliosis. A special traction table is used when applying a cast. Casts are changed every 3-4 months

Treat and Manage Your Child’s Scoliosis Conclusion

Young patients with large or progressive curves may require an implant that controls the curve, while still allowing the spine to grow. We use magnetically-controlled growing rods (MAGEC rods) to lengthen the spine without general anesthesia.

LuskinOIC is here to help with every step of your child’s scoliosis.

Request an appointment today to see one of our experts.

Learn more at our Scoliosis Center.

Surgery. It’s a word no parent wants to hear about their child’s health. But at LuskinOIC, pediatric surgery often represents hope for children who have already endured so much.

This hope goes beyond the natural resilience of children, who tend to heal faster than adults. It’s about the exceptional care they receive here. With a state-of-the-art facility and a skilled team of surgeons, specialists, and rehabilitation experts, we are dedicated to giving your child the best chance for a successful surgery, smooth recovery, and a brighter future.

We understand that, as a parent, you have questions. Here’s what you need to know about pediatric orthopaedic surgery—and why our Ambulatory Surgery Center is a place you can trust.

How to Determine if Surgery is the Best Option for Your Child

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When faced with the possibility of surgery for your child, it’s reassuring to know that today’s medical advancements often mean less invasive procedures, smaller incisions, and faster recovery times. Different conditions require different types of surgery, and understanding the options available can help you make the best decision for your child’s health.

Types of Surgery

1. Open Surgery
Open surgery involves making a larger incision to provide the surgeon with a full view of the structures or organs involved. For example, scoliosis surgery may require spinal fusion to realign and fuse curved vertebrae into a single, solid bone. This procedure can take between 2 to 5 hours, with a typical inpatient recovery time of 3 to 5 days.

2. Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery involves techniques that require only small incisions, leading to faster recovery, less pain, and reduced scarring. While not all conditions can be treated this way, many surgical techniques now fall into this category, offering a less daunting option for children and parents alike.

By understanding the differences between surgical methods, you can have more informed conversations with your child’s healthcare team about which approach is best suited for their specific condition.

How to Talk to Your Child About Surgery

When explaining surgery to young children (or even anxious teens), the key is to keep it simple and reassuring. The goal is to ease their worries and help them understand that this procedure is meant to help them feel better.

Tips for Explaining Surgery to a Child:

1. Use Diagrams, Toys, or Play
Demonstrating on a stuffed animal, drawing simple pictures, or using role-play can make surgery feel less intimidating. These visual and hands-on methods help kids grasp what’s going to happen, turning the unknown into something they can understand.

2. Keep It Brief and Honest
Explain the basics of why they need the surgery and what it will help fix, without going into details that might sound frightening. If possible, introduce them to their doctor or show them the clinic ahead of time to build familiarity.

3. Focus on Positive Language
If you treat surgery as something scary, they’ll likely feel the same way. Instead, emphasize the positive outcomes—how the procedure will help them feel better, and how kind the doctors will be throughout the process. Reassure them that you’ll be by their side. While it’s important to be truthful, avoid making promises you can’t guarantee. Keep the tone hopeful and supportive.

Learn about our Ambulatory Surgery Center

The Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) at LuskinOIC is the first of its kind in Los Angeles, offering pediatric patients faster access to outpatient orthopaedic surgical care. This cutting-edge facility allows us to significantly reduce surgery wait times, helping prevent serious or permanent damage in children recovering from musculoskeletal conditions and injuries.

We’re proud to share that our ASC has earned renewed accreditation from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), reflecting our unwavering commitment to excellence. Additionally, our LuskinOIC Laboratory is accredited by The Joint Commission for meeting and exceeding rigorous performance standards. These distinctions set our ASC apart as a leader in outpatient care, ensuring the highest quality treatment—regardless of a family’s financial circumstances.

To learn more, reach out to us or watch this video for a virtual tour of our Ambulatory Surgery Center:

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Wrist injuries like breaks and strains are a common childhood ailment—especially for kids and teens who are active in sports. But even for those not involved in youth athletics, simple playground mishaps or accidents at home can still cause wrist sprains, fractures, and growth issues.

Here, we’ll cover some of the most common pediatric wrist injuries, how to treat them, and how to prevent them.

Common Types of Wrist Injuries

Wrist injuries in children and teens typically occur from either sudden injury or due to an overuse of the joint. In some rare cases, a child might experience symptoms caused by autoimmune conditions such as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, but the majority of wrist injuries are from falls, breaks, strains, or repetitive stress. 

Growth Plate Injuries

It’s typical to see wrist injuries that involve a bone’s growth plate—the cartilage near the ends of the bone that isn’t as strong as the surrounding bone or ligaments. If left untreated, or improperly treated, injuries to wrist growth plates can ultimately impact the development and long-term range of motion of the child’s forearm.

Fractures

Fractures are one of the most common types of injuries we see in young children, and the best way to ensure proper healing is by getting expert treatment quickly and thoroughly. Although broken bones might not always be obvious, typical signs of a pediatric wrist fracture may include an inability to move the wrist or hand, pain and swelling in the affected area, bruising or redness in the wrist or forearm, and deformity of the wrist, hand, or forearm.

Learn more about fractures and how we treat them at LuskinOIC’s Ahmanson Foundation Fracture Center.

Sprains and Strains

Wrist sprains are most often caused by the child falling on an outstretched arm, or a similar impact from contact sports that forces the wrist to hyperextend and tears the surrounding soft tissue and ligaments. Common signs of a wrist sprain include swelling, bruising, pain or tenderness, and weakness. 

If you suspect your child has endured a sprain, don’t wait! Visit LuskinOIC’s Pediatric Urgent Care Center. Learn more or hold your spot in line online here.

Gymnast Wrist

Yes, it’s a real injury! Gymnast wrist is a repetitive stress injury that causes pain and inflammation on the thumb side of the wrist. It usually develops when a gymnast increases training intensity or moves to a higher competitive level.

Learn more about Pediatric Overuse Injuries, and how to prevent them.

How is treatment for pediatric wrist injuries different from adults?

One of the biggest differences is in terms of the child’s growth plates. Adult growth plates have already closed, so there’s less risk of a developmental malfunction. 

For example, a pediatric fracture may do damage to growth plates; left untreated, damaged growth plates may cause bones to grow unevenly, or not at all. This is why it’s so important to see a pediatric orthopaedic specialist as soon as possible to ensure proper healing.

Children’s bones are also more flexible than adults, which allows them to absorb shock better. In general, children heal faster than adults, who tend to require longer recovery and rehabilitation time.

Our Sports Medicine team at LuskinOIC has revolutionized athletic recovery by using cutting-edge research to assess the physical and mental/emotional readiness of young athletes so they can return to their favorite activities post-injury. 

From evaluating limb symmetry to analyzing neuromotor control, our expert physicians guide athletes and families toward a safe return to the sports and activities they love. 

Learn more about our Sports Medicine program for youth athletes.

Tips For Preventing Children’s Wrist Injuries  

For youth athletes, proper gear is key. Wrist guards, properly fitted gloves, finger taping, and other game-time prep can help to prevent injury both in the immediate and over time.

Coaches and athletic trainers can also assist with injury prevention at schools and on the field.

At home, encourage an active lifestyle that includes stretching, hydration, and an injury-prevention mindset for wrists and the whole body.

We aim to provide outstanding musculoskeletal medical assistance for all children and we’re here for you if an unexpected wrist injury happens. Learn more about our caring team of experts at LuskinOIC.

Playgrounds can be magical places for children. However, they are also a source of common pediatric injuries. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, more than 220,000 children under the age of 14 are treated for playground injuries in emergency rooms each year.

Even though accidents can happen to even the most cautious child, and under the most attentive supervision, there are key actions parents and caregivers can plan to take to ensure playground safety. We’ll share that advice below, along with common injuries and how to know when medical help is necessary.

Common Types of Playground Injuries

‍Falls‍

Falls from playground equipment are among the highest rates of emergency visits. Whether kids lose grip on monkey bars, slip while running or climbing, or bounce off a seesaw, it’s possible that they can hit the ground pretty hard, leading to a variety of serious injuries.

Cuts and scrapes

Minor cuts and scrapes don’t necessarily mean playtime is over for the day; many can be cleaned with soapy water and bandaged on the spot before sending your child back out to play. But you should seek medical attention if bleeding won’t stop, if the cut occurs from metal or glass, or if wounds are deep enough to require stitches.

Fractures/broken bones

It can sometimes be hard to tell when an injury is actually a broken bone. Signs of a fracture may include: pain and swelling, lack of limb mobility, inability to put weight on the injured limb, bruising and redness, or deformity of the affected area. (Learn more about diagnosis, treatment, and healing in our Parents’ Guide to Understanding Fractures.)

If you’re unsure whether medical attention is necessary for a possible broken bone, always err on the side of caution. If you’re in the Los Angeles area, seek out our LuskinOIC Pediatric Orthopaedic Urgent Care Center. Our medical experts focus solely on children’s medical care for fractures, dislocations, sprains, strains, and other musculoskeletal injuries.

‍Rather than waiting in an emergency room for care from a general physician, you can walk in and see a pediatric orthopaedic specialist in just a few minutes—you can even use the Save My Spot option to get in line online. Learn more about our urgent care center here.

Collisions

Rounding a corner too fast or standing too close to the bottom of a slide can cause collisions that lead to injuries like a concussion or a bloody nose. Seek medical help if a bloody nose continues to bleed after 15 minutes or if your child shows these symptoms of a concussion: confusion, headache, nausea, impaired speech, blurred vision, or loss of consciousness. Parents should be instructed to follow up with a physician if child if they witness visual clues of suspected concussion and if child reports concussions symptoms that don’t resolve within about 10 mins or appear to be worsening. Download our Concussion Recognition Tool here.

How to Prevent Common Playground Injuries

Supervise children and encourage safety

Ensure that children know (and follow) playground safety rules, how equipment works, and the importance of social factors like taking turns and being kind. Help maintain safety by discouraging bullying or pushing, crowding at exits or the bottom of slides, or other unsafe play like standing on a swing. Remind children that jumping off of a tall structure can be dangerous and should be avoided.

Take notice of the playground environment

Is the equipment more suitable for older children? Is the ground soft like mulch or sand, or hard like asphalt or gravel? Examining the surroundings in which your child will be playing allows you to determine their level of safety. Also, take note of the state of the equipment, keeping an eye out for rusted corners, broken swings, or loose parts.

Safe clothing

Hoodies or shirts with drawstrings, and  loose necklaces, are both an unfortunately common cause of strangulation on playgrounds. Ensure that children aren’t wearing anything loose around their neck. Appropriate footwear can make running and climbing safer, too—aim for closed-toe sneakers that are securely tied or fastened.

Age appropriateness

Playgrounds for younger children are built in a way to be more suitable for shorter height, lower strength, and less ability to grip (such small hands!). For all-ages playgrounds, ensure that the younger set knows which play equipment is off-limits; for instance, seesaws or sliding poles/fire poles are generally not recommended for children under age six. Last, although a parent or guardian might be tempted to go down a slide with a toddler or baby on their lap, this is discouraged by medical experts, as a child could potentially get a limb stuck on the way down and cause injury.

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Health and Safety For All Children

We aim to provide outstanding musculoskeletal medical assistance for all children and we’re here for you if an unexpected playground injury happens. Learn more about our caring team of experts at LuskinOIC here.

Childhood injuries are inevitable. But children are resilient; they tend to heal and bounce back faster than adults after physical trauma. Still, when it comes to treating injuries like fractures, commonly known as broken bones, it’s important for kids to receive specialized care by a trusted pediatric orthopaedist to ensure proper treatment and recovery.

If you’re unsure of whether your child has a fracture, or if you want to know more about how long it takes for a child’s broken bone to heal—and what a visit to a pediatric orthopaedic specialist entails—keep reading.

How do I know if my child has a fracture?

Sometimes it’s difficult to tell whether an injury is actually a broken bone. But it’s best not to rule out the possibility, as fractures are one of the most common types of injuries for young children.

Whether your child has endured a fall, a collision during contact sports, a car accident, or other types of physical trauma, you’ll want to keep an eye out for the following symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of fractures

There are a few telltale signs of childhood fractures to look out for. Even if your child doesn’t display each symptom, don’t rule out a fracture—you should contact your child’s pediatrician, and for serious cases, a 911 call or trip to the ER may be warranted.

Typical signs and symptoms of a fracture include:

• Inability to move the injured limb or joint
• Pain and swelling in the affected area
• Difficulty or inability to put weight on the injured limb or joint
• Bruising, redness, or deformity of the affected area.

Common types of fractures

• Non-displaced (also known as Stable)

In this type of fracture, the ends of a broken bone are still aligned and can be stabilized, usually with an immobilization device like a cast or splint. Immobilization encourages faster, proper healing.

• Displaced

The bones are out of place and may need to be put back in place during a process called reduction. After the misaligned bones are put back in place, a cast (or other proper immobilization device) is administered.

• Open

In this fracture, also known as a compound fracture, the skin is pierced and the bone might be visible. Open fractures are a more serious type of broken bone that require immediate care to prevent infection and will likely need surgical attention.

• Comminuted

A type of displaced fracture, this occurs when the bone has shattered or split into several pieces.

How is treatment of childhood fractures different from adult fractures?

Children’s fractures are different from adult fractures in several ways.

For one, a pediatric fracture may do damage to growth plates—which can inhibit proper growth for children of growing age. If a fracture is left untreated, or not treated properly, damaged growth plates may cause bones to grow unevenly, or not be able to grow. This is why it’s critical to see an orthopaedic specialist as soon as possible.

On the plus side, children’s bones are more flexible than adults’, which allows them to absorb shock better. Children will often heal faster and surgery isn’t typically required.

Diagnosis and treatment of childhood fractures

The first step for a suspected fracture is to get a proper diagnosis for your child’s injury. Seek medical care as soon as possible if your child is experiencing any of the common fracture signs and symptoms.

If you’re in the Los Angeles area, we encourage you to bring your child to LuskinOIC’s Pediatric Orthopaedic Urgent Care Center, where wait times are often much shorter than at a typical urgent care center and you will see doctors who specialize in childrens’ broken bones.

Here’s how to plan a visit to our Pediatric Urgent Care Center.

LuskinOIC’s specialists are dedicated to pediatric orthopaedics and can support your family throughout the entire course of treatment—from diagnosis to recovery—with our team of experts leading our Ahmanson Foundation Fracture Center.

Diagnosis

When being seen for a suspected fracture, your child will first receive an examination, which includes checking vitals, learning more about the cause of the injury, and understanding the type of pain. X-rays will be taken to provide additional insight for a diagnosis.

Treatment

Next, you’ll be given a treatment plan with three main goals: Reducing pain, aligning the fractured bone, and helping to regain normal range of motion when the bone has healed.

An immobilization device like a brace, splint, walking boot, or cast may be recommended. The course of the treatment plan will be tailored to your child’s needs based on severity, age, and lifestyle.

How long does a child’s fracture take to heal?

On average, it takes about four to eight weeks for fractures to heal, although it’s common to see healing after about six weeks. Additional time may be needed for severe fractures, which can take up to three months.

Does my child need to see a Pediatric Orthopedist?

To ensure correct diagnosis and proper recovery, we encourage parents to contact a pediatric orthopedist, like the specialists here at LuskinOIC.

In 2015, the University of Maryland did a study on childhood fractures treated at ERs and non-specialty urgent cares, and found that out of 225 children, 93 percent had received splints that were placed improperly (source). This well-meaning error may hinder healing through slower recovery, or cause improper healing which can lead to long-term chronic pain and limited range of motion.

But how common is it for a child to break a bone?

The same study notes that fractures are the fourth most common injury in children under age 6 (according to the AAP), and that nearly half of all boys and a quarter of all girls will break an arm or leg before age 16.

Our approach and expertise

If your child has a broken bone, don’t take chances. See the specialists at LuskinOIC’s Fracture Center for expert treatment ASAP. Contact us here.

Our personalized treatment approach ensures proper bone alignment, comfort during healing, and full joint motion restoration, so your child can quickly return to school, sports, and normal life.

LuskinOIC’s specialists use cutting-edge medical technology and a premium rehabilitation center to help children recover from fractures. For instance, the Harbison Radiology department, equipped with advanced X-ray machines, guarantees optimal care. Our new pediatric orthopaedic rehabilitation center, tailored for ages 0-4, features a kids corner for movement and coordination development. Innovative equipment, including the NASA-designed Alter G machine, accelerates rehabilitation for early return to activities.

As LA’s experts at treating broken bones in children, our care begins with diagnosis and spans the entire recovery process. This includes:

• Onsite diagnostic tests and imaging (meet our award-winning radiology team!)
• Non-surgical and surgical treatment
• Casting (Did you know that we provide more than 32,000 casts and nearly 20,000 braces each year?)
• Physical rehabilitation, including our Return to Sports testing
• Follow-up care throughout recovery

What’s the best way to help my child heal from a fracture?

It’s a relief to many parents and guardians to know that most childrens’ fractures heal steadily, effectively, and often without any long-term effects. Here’s how to promote proper healing.

Healing Fractures

Casts play a critical role in healing broken bones, but the bone continues to heal even after the cast is removed. After a doctor removes the cast, they’ll examine the area to check for any pain and review range of motion.

For ongoing home care, a proper nutrient-rich diet that’s high in calcium may encourage faster healing and better bone health.

If swelling or pain return, ice may help with inflammation, but it’s also wise to contact your pediatrician.

If the doctor gives any activity restrictions, it’s best to follow that advice even if your child feels ready to get back to usual activities. Make sure to attend any follow-up appointments or physical rehab, even if your child seems fully healed.

How to find a Pediatric Orthopedist

Did you know that the Ahmanson Foundation Fracture Center at LuskinOIC is one of the country’s largest pediatric orthopaedic fracture centers?

Our specialized pediatric orthopaedic experts are dedicated to your child’s health, setting us apart with their unwavering commitment to helping kids heal from broken bones and get back to playing and normal life. Learn more about our fracture experts here.

Check out our Instagram post.

Did you know that your femur is the largest and strongest bone in your body? It is 4 times stronger than concrete! While femur fractures are rarely seen in sports, some of the most common sports injuries to the femur include skiing, football, soccer, or basketball. That is why it is important to keep your bones healthy and strong through physical activity and nutrition.

The three elements of fitness are endurance, strength, and flexibility. For kids to work on these, parents can encourage their kids to engage in a variety of activities and sports.

Here are 5 great outlets to help your child’s bone strength and growth.

1. Walking, rolling, running or jogging: Weight-bearing exercises like these encourage stronger bones. Bones and muscle work together to become stronger.

2. Tennis: This sport helps build stronger bones, promote better balance, coordination and arm strength.

3. Gymnastics: Gymnastics is another sport that is weight-bearing. It will help your child’s bone health, promote flexibility, coordination and endurance.

4. Team sports (like soccer or basketball): These sports are great for maintaining health and strength. It can help improve bone development as well as teach teamwork.

5. Dancing: Dancing tones muscles, strengthens bones and improves balance. Plus it is fun!

Your bones also need these major things to grow to their full peak mass: calcium, vitamin D. Good sources of calcium:

• Seeds like poppy, sesame, chia seeds
• Cheese, parmesan has the most calcium
• Yogurt, also has probiotics, a beneficial bacteria that helps promote immune function
• Sardines and canned salmon are packed with calcium
• Beans and lentils are also high in fiber and protein
• Almonds are also a great source of magnesium
• Leafy greens like collard greens and bokchoy
• Fortified foods like some breakfast cereals, tortillas and breads provide calcium
• Fortified drinks, Nondairy milks and orange juice may be fortified with calcium
• Milk is well absorbed by the body

Good sources of Vitamin D:

• Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines, Tuna have loads of Vitamin D
• Supplements can also provide Vitamin D

Here are 5 interesting facts about the Ponseti method and how it is used to help clubfoot.

1. Manipulation and Casting

·  Initial Assessment: The process begins with a thorough assessment of the baby’s clubfoot. The foot is gently manipulated to assess its flexibility and to understand the severity of the deformity.

· Gentle Manipulation: The foot is gently manipulated into a corrected position. The healthcare provider does not force the foot but rather guides it gradually to allow the muscles, ligaments, and bones to adapt naturally.

· Casting: After each manipulation, the foot is placed in a cast to maintain the amount of correction achieved. The cast is typically made of plaster or fiberglass. The casting is done in a way that gradually improves the foot’s position with each cast change.

· Weekly Cast Changes: The cast is changed weekly, and during each change, the foot is gently manipulated a bit further toward the correct position. This gradual process allows for the correction of the deformity over several weeks.

2. Achilles Tenotomy

· Indications: After several weeks of casting, there might be residual tightness in the Achilles tendon preventing a complete correction of the deformity. If that is the case, the Achilles tendon is cut to complete the correction.

· Minor Procedure: Achilles tenotomy is a minor surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia. It involves a small incision on the back of the ankle. The Achilles tendon is cut, allowing it to lengthen and facilitating further correction of the foot’s position.

· Healing: Following the procedure, the baby’s foot is re-casted for a few weeks to allow the tendon to heal in the lengthened position.

3. Bracing

· Purpose: Bracing is crucial for maintaining the corrected position of the foot.

· Types of Braces: Mitchell-Ponseti or similar braces are commonly used. These braces are designed to keep the foot in the corrected position.

· Bracing Regimen: The braces are worn full-time (23 hours a day) for a period of 3 months. After that, braces are worn during nap and night time to prevent relapses. Depending on the severity of the clubfoot, up to 5 years of bracing might be necessary.

· Importance of Compliance: Adherence to the bracing regimen is vital. Parents are educated on proper bracing techniques, and regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider ensure that the braces are fitting well and the correction is maintained.

4. Follow-up Care

· Regular Monitoring: At LuskinOIC, the child’s progress is monitored through regular follow-up appointments with an orthopaedic specialist experienced in the Ponseti method.

· Adjustments: During follow-up visits, the orthopaedic specialist experienced in the Ponseti method assesses the foot’s development and makes any necessary adjustments to the bracing regimen to ensure the correction is maintained as the child grows.

5. Physical Therapy

· Purpose: Physical therapy might be recommended to help the child develop strength and coordination in the corrected foot.

· Exercises: Therapists provide exercises and activities to enhance the child’s motor skills and muscle strength, ensuring the corrected foot functions properly.

1) Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains are some of the most common sports-related injuries among children. A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn, while a strain refers to an injury to a muscle or tendon. These injuries often happen during activities that involve sudden movements, changes in direction, or overexertion. Sprained ankles, pulled hamstrings, and ACL tears (which we talk more in depth here) are common examples of this type of injury.

Prevention Tips:

• Encourage proper warm up and cool down routines before and after sports activities
• Make sure your child wears appropriate protective gear, such as supportive footwear and braces
• Teach your child the importance of staying hydrated and not pushing themselves beyond their limits

2) Growth Plate Injuries

Growth plate injuries, often referred to as physeal fractures, occur at the growth plates, areas of developing tissue located at the end of long bones in children. Since these plates are more delicate than the mature bone, they are more prone to fractures during high-impact activities or accidents. Growth plate injuries can disrupt normal bone growth and development, potentially leading to long-term complications if not managed properly. Some sports such as boxing or football can have the potential for damaging the plates.

‍Prevention Tips:

• Ensure that children engage in age-appropriate and skill-level specific activities. Gradually introduce new exercises and techniques, allowing their bodies to adapt and build strength over time.
• Encourage participation in a variety of sports and activities rather than focusing solely on one.
• Prioritize rest days and sufficient sleep for young athletes. Adequate rest supports the body’s natural growth and recovery processes, lowering the risk of overuse injuries that can impact growth plates.

3) Fractures and Dislocations

Fractures and dislocations can occur when children fall, collide with others, or experience direct blows while playing sports. Bones in the wrist, forearm, ankle, and collarbone are particularly vulnerable. These injuries are more prevalent in contact sports like football, boxing, and martial arts.

‍Prevention Tips:

• Ensure your child uses appropriate safety equipment like helmets, knee pads, and mouth-guards.
• Ensure playing surfaces are well-maintained and free from hazards.
• Encourage coaches and trainers to emphasize proper techniques and safe play.

4) Overuse Injuries

Overuse injuries are a result of repetitive stress on muscles, tendons, and bones over time. Young athletes involved in activities that require repetitive movements, such as running, swimming, or pitching, are at higher risk. Common overuse injuries include tennis or golf elbow, stress fractures, and swimmer’s shoulder.

Prevention Tips:

• Encourage your child to participate in a variety of sports and not specialize in one too early.
• Monitor training intensity and ensure adequate rest days in between intense workouts.
• Teach your child to listen to their body and communicate any pain or discomfort to coaches and parents.

5) Concussions

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur in contact sports or any activity with a risk of falling, such as football, hockey or basketball. While not always obvious, concussions should be taken seriously as they can have long-term consequences on a child’s health and cognitive function.

Prevention Tips:

• Make sure your child wears appropriate headgear and helmets, especially in contact sports.
• Teach coaches and staff about concussion protocols, emphasizing the importance of reporting and managing potential head injuries.

While sports offer numerous benefits for children, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks of sports-related injuries. By following proper safety guidelines, encouraging a well-rounded approach to sports, and being attentive to your child’s physical well-being, you can help reduce the likelihood of injuries and create a safe and enjoyable environment for your young athlete. Remember, early injury prevention and management can lead to a lifetime of active and healthy living.

At Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for children, our providers are experts in treating a variety of orthopaedic conditions, including sport injuries. To schedule an appointment, call our office at (213) 742-1162.

1. Turn the initial adjustment period into a game

Your child might struggle with the clubfoot brace, at first. To help them overcome their initial fussiness:

• Show them how to kick and swing their legs together while wearing the brace (if it has a solid bar) by pushing and pulling on the bar to bend and then straighten the knees.
• Move their legs up and down as well (if the brace has a dynamic bar).
• Encourage your child to practice these movements on their own.

2. Apply padding to the bar

Foam, such as a piece of swimming pool noodle, or bicycle handlebar pads can fit over the bar to:

• Protect your child from accidental bumps or bruises
• Keep you safe from unintentional injuries as well
• Reduce the risk of the bar accidentally damaging your furniture

3. Keep an eye on your child’s skin

Bracing can cause minor redness on your child’s skin. Keep in mind that:

• You should take a look at your child’s feet a few times each day when they first start bracing.
• If you see severe red patches or blisters—particularly near the back of the heel—the straps or buckles might be too loose, allowing the heel to slip.
• Applying lotion to your child’s skin will only make things worse.

4. Create a bracing schedule and stick to it

Eventually, your child will need to wear the brace only during naptime and at night. Incorporate the brace into their bedtime routine by:

• Applying the brace in the same place (such as the bedroom) each time.
• Fitting bracing into the rest of the routine—such as after bath but before storytime.
• Staying consistent with this routine as much as possible, even if you are not at home.

Learn more: Clubfoot