Understanding and Treating Running Injuries in the Youth Athlete

Running’s popularity in the youth athlete has significantly increased in recent years. As the number of children who participate in running increases, the number of injuries in this group is also likely to increase. Proper care of these athletes includes a thorough understanding of the unique physiology of the skeletally immature athlete and commonly associated running injuries. Treatment should focus on adult and athlete education, modification of training and competition schedules, and correction of biomechanical deficits contributing to injury. Early identification and correction of these factors will allow for prevention, participation, and when necessary, quicker return to running sports.