Muscle-tendon injuries in young athletes.
The pediatric athlete with open physeal plates is more susceptible to growth plate injuries and avulsion fractures rather than ligament and muscle-tendon injuries that most often occur in adults. In general, the pediatric athlete is able to return to full activity quicker than the adult athlete because of a more rapid healing response. There has been a recent interest in the study of the pathophysiology of muscle-tendon injuries and treatment strategies based on these studies have changed. Laboratory studies have several implications regarding the prevention of muscle-tendon injuries. Clinical studies to confirm their efficacy are needed. Complications of re-injury include more serious injury and conditions such as myositis ossificans. Injury prevention has focused on the use of protective equipment and an emphasis on stretching and strengthening programs.
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Sports Medicine Section, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
D000293:Adolescent; D000818:Animals; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D003288:Contusions / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D018485:Muscle Fibers, Skeletal / Q000502:physiology; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000293:injuries* / Q000502:physiology; D013180:Sprains and Strains / Q000503:physiopathology; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy