In general, teenagers usually don't have issues with chronic pain and injuries. However, teenagers who engage in sports activities are at an increased risk for back pain and back injuries. If you have a child who plays sports, you have to pay attention to any pain that your child is experiencing. While sore muscles are common during training and conditioning, serious back injuries may display the same signs and symptoms as sore muscles. So, it's important to have your child evaluated by a medical professional each and every time new pain or symptoms arises, especially if the pain occurs in the lower back. Following are three common causes for lower back pain in young athletes.
Strains and Sprains
Lack of conditioning and improper technique can lead to muscle strains and ligament strains in teens, especially during times of intense training. These types of injuries can also occur as the direct result of a traumatic injury caused by a fall or collision with another player. Symptoms of strains and sprains include general pain and aches in the lower back region along with soreness and stiffness.
To prevent back sprains and strains in your child, make sure they are using the proper technique. Back exercises that strengthen the muscles of the back and abdomen are also helpful when it comes to preventing these types of injuries.
Spinal Misalignment
Sports that require a great deal of twisting and hyper-extension of the spine can cause spinal misalignment injuries, such as slipped discs. Although an X-ray is needed to diagnose spinal misalignment, your child may complain about pain that gets worse with movement, particularly movements involving arching and stretching the back.
To treat and prevent misalignment, have your child consult with a chiropractor at the first sign of back pain. Treatment for this type of injury involves realignment of the spine, rest and trunk strengthening exercises.
Other Disc Injuries
Athletes who jump or take part in other jarring activities, may develop a compression fracture or ruptured disc in their back. This type of injury normally shows up as pain that radiates down one or more leg. Disc injuries are treated with a combination of immobilization followed by chiropractic intervention and physical therapy.
As you can see, there are several types of back injuries that your child can sustain as the result of playing sports. The best way to prevent any of these injuries is through strengthening of the core muscles. You may also wish to see a chiropractor to check on the health of your child's spine from time to time, especially if they complain of back pain.
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