Sport Injury

When a child gets hurt during play or sports, a parent’s first instinct is to hope it is nothing serious. In many cases, that hope is justified. But there is a category of injury in growing children that looks like a simple sprain or minor fracture on the outside and turns out to be something that deserves considerably more careful attention: a growth plate injury. At POBAR, our pediatric orthopedic specialists see these injuries regularly, and the most important thing parents can understand is that a child’s skeleton is fundamentally different from an adult’s, which means these injuries require a different kind of evaluation and care. If your child has experienced an injury near a joint and something does not seem quite right, schedule an evaluation today. Understanding what growth plates are and why they matter is the foundation of understanding why these injuries are taken so seriously in pediatric orthopedic care. What Growth Plates Are and Why They Matter Growth plates are areas of soft, developing cartilage located near the ends of the long bones in a child’s arms and legs. They are sometimes called the physis, and they are the regions where bone growth actually occurs. As a child grows, the growth plates gradually produce new bone tissue, lengthening the bones over time. This process continues until the child reaches skeletal maturity, which typically happens around age 14 to 16 in girls and 16 to 18 in boys. Once growth is complete, the growth plates harden and close, replaced by solid bone. Until that closure happens, the growth plates are the structurally weakest points in a child’s skeleton. In adults, ligaments and tendons are often the weakest link when a joint is stressed, which is why adults tend to sprain. In children, the growth plate is weaker than the surrounding ligaments, which means that forces that would cause a sprain in an adult may instead cause a fracture through the growth plate in a child. This is one of the most important differences between pediatric and adult orthopedics, and it is the reason that an injury that appears to be a simple sprain in a child sometimes warrants a closer look. Why Growth Plate Injuries Are Different From Other Fractures Growth plate injuries are classified using a system that describes how much of the growth plate and surrounding bone is involved. The type of injury matters because it directly affects the treatment approach and the likelihood of complications. Minor injuries involving only the growth plate itself often heal well with appropriate immobilization. More complex injuries that extend into the joint or the bone shaft may require surgical treatment to ensure proper alignment and reduce the risk of growth problems afterward. The most significant concern with growth plate injuries that are not properly recognized and treated is their potential to affect how the bone grows going forward. An untreated or poorly treated growth plate injury can lead to a bone growing at an abnormal angle, or one limb growing shorter than the other. These are not inevitable outcomes, and the majority of growth plate injuries heal without lasting problems when they are identified and managed appropriately. But those good outcomes depend on getting the right evaluation in the first place. Why These Injuries Can Be Easy to Miss One of the challenges with growth plate injuries is that they do not always look like dramatic fractures. A child who has injured their growth plate may have swelling and tenderness around the affected area but may still be able to move the limb. On a standard X-ray, some growth plate injuries are not immediately obvious because the cartilage of the growth plate does not show up on X-ray the way bone does. What appears as a “normal” X-ray finding in an adult may represent an injury through the cartilage in a child. This is precisely why specialized pediatric orthopedic evaluation matters. Physicians trained in pediatric orthopedics know where growth plates are located, what their normal appearance should be at different stages of development, and what subtle signs on imaging or examination suggest an injury has occurred. They also know when additional imaging may be needed to clarify what standard X-rays cannot fully show. Common Locations and What Parents Might Notice Growth plate injuries most commonly occur at the wrist, ankle, and knee, though they can happen at any joint where a growth plate is present. After an injury to one of these areas, parents should pay attention to whether the child is tender directly over the bony prominence of the joint rather than over the ligament on the side of the joint. Tenderness over the growth plate area, significant swelling, or a child who is unwilling to use the limb normally after an injury are all signs worth having assessed by a pediatric orthopedic specialist. It is also worth noting that overuse injuries can affect growth plates as well, not just acute traumatic incidents. In young athletes who are training intensively, repetitive stress on a growth plate can cause pain and inflammation that, if not recognized and managed, can lead to more significant injury over time. Any child who has persistent pain around a joint during or after sports activity should be evaluated rather than encouraged to push through it. Personalized, Expert Care at POBAR At POBAR in Brandon, every child is seen as an individual with a growing body that deserves evaluation from specialists who understand its unique structure. Our pediatric orthopedic team combines thorough clinical assessment with appropriate imaging to ensure that growth plate injuries are identified accurately and treated in a way that protects both the injured area and the child’s growth potential. If your child has had a recent injury and you are not fully certain it has been evaluated with growth plates in mind, we are here to provide that peace of mind. Frequently Asked Questions How do I know if my child has a growth plate injury rather than a sprain? Because growth

Watching your child count down the days until their cast comes off is one of the more hopeful moments in a fracture recovery, and that excitement is completely understandable. What many families do not realize, though, is that cast removal is the beginning of the return to sports process, not the end of it. At POBAR, we guide families in Tampa through this transition every day, helping parents understand what their child’s body actually needs before heading back to practice. Knowing the difference between a healed cast and a truly ready athlete can protect your child from the kind of setback that takes far longer to recover from than the original injury. The weeks after a fracture can feel long, especially for a child who loves to move. When the cast finally comes off, the relief is real, and the urge to jump straight back into activity is completely natural. But bones, muscles, and joints all need more time than most families expect, and understanding why helps make the transition back to sport smoother and safer for everyone. What Is Actually Happening Inside the Bone Bone healing does not happen all at once. It moves through distinct phases, and each one plays a role in preparing the bone to handle the forces of sport again. In the first week or two after the fracture, the body responds with inflammation, bringing cells and blood flow to the injury site. This is normal and necessary. Over the next several weeks, the bone begins to form what is called a callus, a bridge of new tissue that gradually hardens as it matures. By six weeks, that callus is solid enough to look healed on an X-ray, but it is still continuing to strengthen and remodel, sometimes for months depending on the bone involved and the child’s age. A bone that looks healed in imaging is not always a bone that is ready for a slide tackle, a gymnastics vault, or a full sprint. Why Cast Removal Is Not the Finish Line This is the part that surprises most parents, and it is worth saying clearly. Taking the cast off does not mean the bone is done healing, and it definitely does not mean the body is ready for sport. During the time spent in a cast, several things happen beyond bone repair. The muscles around the injury weaken significantly from not being used. The joints stiffen. The body’s ability to sense position and balance, known as proprioception, diminishes. These changes happen quietly and children may not feel them right away. The result is that a child whose cast just came off is actually at one of the higher points of risk for reinjury, precisely because the bone feels better but the surrounding support systems have not yet recovered. At POBAR, parents are always advised that the conversation about returning to sport starts at cast removal, not before. How the Return to Sport Process Actually Works Safe return to sport after a fracture is gradual by design, not by caution alone. The body needs to rebuild in a specific sequence, with each stage confirming that the previous one has been mastered before moving forward. A general progression looks something like this: Beginning with normal daily activities and light walking Moving to jogging once that is comfortable and pain free Progressing to running, then jumping and cutting movements Reintroducing drills and skills specific to the sport Practicing without contact before returning to full play Each of these steps requires that the previous one produced no pain, no swelling, and no sign of compensating with other parts of the body. Rushing through them is one of the most common reasons children end up back in the office with a new injury before the first one has fully resolved. Signs Your Child May Not Be Ready Children are often eager to get back to their team, and they do not always report discomfort accurately, either because they are pushing through it or because they genuinely want to be ready. Parents who watch carefully during this transition can catch warning signs that their child needs more time. Things to watch for when activity resumes: Limping or favoring the previously injured side Guarding the area or moving differently than before the injury Fatigue that arrives much faster than it used to Complaints of pain during or after activity, even mild ones Hesitation or loss of confidence in movements that used to feel natural Any of these signals deserves a conversation with the treating specialist before activity continues. They are the body’s way of communicating that something still needs more time or more support. When Physical Therapy Is Part of the Plan For younger children with straightforward fractures, the combination of time, gentle stretching, and gradually increasing activity is often sufficient. For older children and teens, particularly those returning to competitive or contact sports, physical therapy plays a meaningful role in rebuilding the strength, balance, and movement patterns that protect against future injury. POBAR works with families to determine which children need structured rehabilitation and which ones can progress with home activity and scheduled follow-up visits. The decision depends on the bone involved, the child’s age, their sport, and how the initial healing has progressed. There is no single answer that fits every child, which is exactly why individualized evaluation matters. A Special Word About Growth Plates Children’s fractures carry one consideration that does not apply to adults: the growth plates. These are the areas of developing cartilage near the ends of growing bones where new bone tissue is produced. They are the softest and most vulnerable parts of a child’s skeleton, and fractures that involve the growth plate require particularly careful follow-up to confirm that normal growth has not been disrupted. POBAR monitors growth plate fractures closely, typically with follow-up imaging two to three months after the injury. In most cases, children heal fully and without complication. But catching any concern early is far better than discovering a

When your child needs a cast, it’s natural to feel concerned and unsure about how to care for it properly. Understanding cast care for children can help you protect healing bones while keeping your child comfortable and safe. At POBAR, we guide families through every step, offering reassurance, clear instructions, and support throughout the healing process. If you ever feel uncertain, reaching out to our team can provide the confidence and care your child deserves. Seeing your child in a cast can bring a mix of emotions—relief that the injury is being treated, but also worry about doing everything right at home. Whether it’s a broken arm from a fall or a leg injury from sports, proper cast care for children plays an essential role in healing. The good news is that with a few simple guidelines and a little extra attention, you can help your child stay comfortable while their body does the important work of recovery.   Why Cast Care Matters More Than You Think A cast does more than just protect an injured bone—it holds it in the correct position so it can heal properly. Even small disruptions, like moisture inside the cast or pressure from objects, can interfere with healing or cause skin irritation. Children, especially younger ones, may not always understand these risks, which is why gentle guidance and supervision are so important. We emphasize that cast care is not about perfection—it’s about consistency, awareness, and responding quickly when something doesn’t seem right. Parents don’t need to feel overwhelmed; with the right information, caring for a cast becomes a manageable part of your daily routine.   The Do’s of Cast Care Taking a proactive approach can make your child’s recovery smoother and more comfortable. Here are some essential practices to follow: Keep the cast clean and dry: Moisture can weaken the cast material and irritate the skin underneath. When bathing, protect the cast with a waterproof cover or plastic wrap sealed securely. Even small amounts of water can lead to discomfort or odor over time. Elevate the injured limb: Especially in the first few days, elevating the arm or leg helps reduce swelling and discomfort. Using pillows to support the limb while resting or sleeping can make a noticeable difference. Check the skin around the cast daily: Look for redness, swelling, or irritation near the edges of the cast. Catching small issues early helps prevent more serious problems. Encourage gentle movement of nearby joints: If allowed by your provider, moving fingers or toes helps maintain circulation and prevent stiffness. This also reassures children that their bodies are still functioning normally. Follow activity restrictions carefully: While it’s tempting for kids to return to play quickly, limiting certain activities protects the healing bone and prevents reinjury. These small, consistent actions create a supportive environment for healing and help your child feel more at ease.   The Don’ts Parents Should Watch For Equally important are the things to avoid. Many complications come from well-meaning attempts to relieve discomfort: Don’t insert objects into the cast: Itching is common, but placing pencils, hangers, or fingers inside the cast can cause cuts or infections. Instead, try gently tapping the cast or using a cool air setting from a hairdryer to relieve itching. Don’t get the cast wet: Even “water-resistant” casts can be affected by prolonged moisture. Wet padding can lead to skin breakdown and unpleasant odors. Don’t ignore complaints of tightness or pain: Increased pain, numbness, or tingling may indicate swelling or circulation issues. These symptoms should be evaluated promptly. Don’t modify the cast yourself: Trimming, loosening, or adjusting the cast at home can compromise its effectiveness. Always consult a specialist if something doesn’t feel right. Don’t allow rough play or risky activities: Jumping, climbing, or contact sports can damage the cast or worsen the injury. Helping children understand these boundaries in a calm, supportive way makes them more likely to cooperate and feel involved in their healing process.   Common Misconceptions About Cast Care Many parents hear conflicting advice when it comes to caring for a cast. Let’s gently clear up a few common misunderstandings: “If it doesn’t hurt, everything is fine.” Not always. Some complications, like skin irritation or pressure sores, may develop without immediate pain. Regular checks are still important. “It’s okay to remove the cast early if my child feels better.” Healing bones need time and stability. Removing a cast too soon can lead to improper healing or reinjury. “Scratching the itch will help.” While it may provide temporary relief, scratching can damage the skin and introduce bacteria. Safer alternatives should always be used. “Kids will naturally slow down while in a cast.” Many children still want to play and explore. Gentle reminders and supervision are needed to keep them safe. Understanding these misconceptions helps parents make confident, informed decisions during recovery.   Helping Your Child Stay Comfortable Comfort plays a big role in how well children cope with wearing a cast. While it may feel restrictive at first, there are ways to make the experience easier: Dress in loose, comfortable clothing: This prevents friction around the cast and makes dressing simpler. Use pillows for support: Positioning the casted limb comfortably can reduce strain and improve sleep. Create calm routines: Bedtime routines, quiet play, and familiar activities can help your child feel secure. Offer reassurance: Children may feel frustrated or worried about their limitations. Gentle encouragement helps them feel supported. At POBAR, we believe emotional comfort is just as important as physical healing. When children feel safe and understood, they adapt more easily to temporary changes.   When to Call a Specialist Even with excellent care, questions and concerns can arise. It’s always better to check in than to wait and worry. Contact a provider if you notice: Increased swelling, severe pain, or a feeling of tightness in the cast Numbness, tingling, or changes in skin color Foul odors or drainage from inside the cast Cracks, soft spots, or damage to the cast Fever or signs

Helping children stay active safely is a top priority for parents and caregivers. POBAR provides expert guidance on sports injury prevention in children, including proper training, protective gear, and conditioning strategies. With a focus on education, early recognition, and strength building, young athletes can enjoy sports confidently while minimizing risks. Contact our team for personalized guidance to keep your child safe, strong, and thriving in every game and practice. Youth sports are an exciting part of growing up, but they also come with the potential for injuries. From soccer and basketball to gymnastics and swimming, children and teens are putting their bodies to the test every day. Understanding sports injury prevention in children is crucial to keeping your child safe while encouraging healthy activity. By combining proper preparation, supervision, and education, families can minimize risks and promote long-term athletic development.   Common Sports Injuries in Young Athletes Children are susceptible to a range of injuries depending on their age, sport, and activity level. Some of the most common include: Sprains and strains: These occur when ligaments (sprains) or muscles/tendons (strains) are overstretched or torn. Children often experience sprains in the ankles during running or jumping sports and strains in the hamstrings or quadriceps from sudden bursts of activity. Early recognition, rest, and targeted strengthening exercises are key to preventing recurrence. Fractures: Broken bones can result from falls, collisions, or direct impacts. Children’s bones are still developing, so timely evaluation is essential. Our pediatric orthopaedic specialists can ensure proper alignment and healing, minimizing long-term effects. Overuse injuries: Activities that involve repetitive motions, such as pitching in baseball, swimming strokes, or long-distance running, can cause stress fractures or tendonitis. Monitoring training volume and incorporating rest periods helps reduce the risk. Concussions: Head injuries are a serious concern, particularly in contact sports like football, soccer, or hockey. Recognizing early signs such as dizziness, headache, or confusion is critical for safety, and athletes must be cleared by a medical professional before returning to play. Dislocations: Kneecap or shoulder dislocations often result from twisting motions or falls. These injuries require prompt evaluation and rehabilitation to restore stability and prevent chronic issues. Recognizing early warning signs and addressing minor injuries promptly can prevent them from becoming chronic problems.   Risk Factors for Sports Injuries Understanding what increases injury risk allows families and coaches to take proactive steps. Factors include: Rapid growth: Children may experience “growth spurts,” where bones lengthen faster than muscles and tendons can adapt. This imbalance can create tightness and vulnerability in joints, increasing the risk of strains and ligament injuries. Stretching, flexibility exercises, and proper warm-ups can help offset these effects. Poor conditioning: Weak muscles or underdeveloped core strength reduce joint support, making children more prone to sprains and overuse injuries. A well-rounded conditioning program targeting the legs, hips, and core helps stabilize joints and supports proper biomechanics. Inadequate warm-up: Jumping straight into drills or games without dynamic warm-up increases the likelihood of strains and sprains. Warm-ups improve blood flow to muscles, enhance joint mobility, and prepare the nervous system for coordination. Simple exercises such as leg swings, jogging in place, or arm circles can make a big difference. Improper technique: Incorrect movement patterns in running, jumping, or throwing place extra stress on joints and tendons. Coaching proper form, reinforcing fundamentals, and using age-appropriate equipment are essential for safe skill development. High training volume: Excessive practice or competition without adequate rest can lead to overuse injuries. Rotating sports, scheduling rest days, and monitoring intensity help children build endurance without overtaxing growing muscles. Previous injuries: Past injuries increase susceptibility to reinjury due to lingering weakness or instability. Targeted rehabilitation and preventive exercises strengthen vulnerable areas and reduce recurrence risk. POBAR emphasizes individualized assessment to identify and address these risk factors before injuries occur.\   Strategies for Injury Prevention Preventing injuries involves a combination of preparation, education, and monitoring: Strength and conditioning: Focus on building strength in the core, legs, and hip muscles to improve balance, coordination, and joint protection. Stronger muscles act as natural stabilizers, reducing the likelihood of sprains and strains during sudden movements. Exercises such as squats, lunges, and planks, tailored to age and ability, can make a measurable difference. Proper warm-up and cooldown: Dynamic stretching before activity prepares muscles and joints for exertion, while static stretching after activity helps maintain flexibility and reduce soreness. Cooldowns also assist in regulating heart rate and preventing muscle tightness that can lead to injury. Safe technique and form: Coaches and specialists should focus on teaching proper movement patterns for running, jumping, cutting, and throwing. Repetition under supervision ensures that these skills become habitual and reduces stress on vulnerable joints like knees and shoulders. Protective gear: Helmets, knee pads, shin guards, and braces protect against acute injuries. Properly fitting gear designed for the child’s sport reduces the severity of impacts and supports joints during play. Our team can guide families in selecting the right protective equipment for each athlete. Balanced training schedules: Rotating sports, scheduling rest periods, and avoiding early specialization allow children to develop a range of motor skills without overloading specific muscle groups. A balance of activity and recovery supports long-term athletic growth. Hydration and nutrition: Adequate water and balanced meals fuel muscles and aid recovery. Proper nutrition supports bone health, energy levels, and muscle repair, all of which contribute to reduced injury risk. Implementing these strategies consistently empowers children to play confidently while reducing injury risks.   Recovery and Rehabilitation for Young Athletes Even with prevention, injuries can occur. How a child recovers plays a critical role in long-term health: Immediate care: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) help reduce swelling and pain following an acute injury. Prompt attention reduces complications and speeds recovery. Gradual return to activity: Once pain and swelling subside, gradual reintroduction of activity under supervision helps restore strength and confidence. Overrushing can lead to reinjury. Physical therapy: Targeted rehabilitation exercises rebuild strength, improve range of motion, and retrain movement patterns. This approach is especially important after sprains, fractures,