Understanding and Managing Knee Pain in Young Athletes

For young athletes, an active lifestyle comes with countless benefits—teamwork, discipline, and improved fitness. However, sports can also take a toll on their growing bodies, and knee pain is one of the most common complaints among young athletes. If not addressed properly, knee pain can lead to longer-term issues or even sideline an athlete from their favorite sport. At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, we’re committed to helping young athletes thrive while staying healthy and injury-free.

This blog will guide you through the common causes of knee pain in young athletes, how to prevent it, and when to seek medical attention.

Common Causes of Knee Pain in Young Athletes

Several factors can contribute to knee pain, and understanding its root cause is pivotal to appropriate treatment. Here are the most common causes:

1. Overuse Injuries

Frequent repetitive movements—such as jumping, running, or pivoting—can strain the muscles and tendons surrounding the knee. This is commonly seen in sports like basketball, soccer, and track.

• Examples: Patellar Tendonitis (commonly called “Jumper’s Knee”) can develop from high-impact activities.
• Signs: Swelling, tenderness, and pain when extending the knee.

2. Osgood-Schlatter Disease

This condition is often seen in children and teenagers, especially during growth spurts. It occurs when repetitive stress on the patellar tendon causes inflammation near the shinbone.

• Signs: Pain and swelling just below the kneecap, particularly after activity.

3. Acute Injuries

Sudden twists, falls, or collisions on the field can cause ligament tears, meniscus injuries, or bone fractures. These injuries often require prompt evaluation and treatment.

• Examples: ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears are particularly common in sports like soccer and gymnastics.
• Signs: Severe pain, swelling, instability, or difficulty bearing weight.

4. Growth-Related Issues

During adolescence, bones, muscles, and tendons don’t always grow at the same rate, which can lead to imbalances and increased stress on joints.

• Examples: Growth plate injuries caused by excessive force applied to growing bones.
• Signs: Persistent pain that worsens with physical activity.

5. Biomechanical Issues

Poor form, flat feet, or muscular imbalances can put unnecessary strain on the knee joint, potentially leading to pain over time.

• Signs: Pain during or after exercise, or discomfort caused by improper movement patterns.

Preventing Knee Pain in Young Athletes

Prevention is key to keeping young athletes on the field and out of the doctor’s office. Follow these tips to reduce the risk of knee pain:

1. Conditioning and Strength Training

Encourage regular strength training that focuses on the muscles surrounding the knee, including the quadriceps and hamstrings. A stronger knee is a more stable knee.

2. Encourage Proper Warm-Ups and Cool-Downs

Dynamic stretching before activity and static stretching afterward can improve flexibility and decrease the likelihood of injuries.

3. Promote Good Form and Technique

Whether running laps or shooting hoops, proper technique is essential. Work with a coach or trainer to ensure movements are biomechanically sound.

4. Avoid Overtraining

Specialization in a single sport at a young age can lead to overuse injuries. Ensure your young athlete incorporates rest days and perhaps cross-trains to avoid repetitive strain.

5. Invest in Proper Gear

Supportive shoes and any required sports braces can reduce stress on the knees and improve overall alignment.

6. Nutrition and Hydration

A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein supports bone and muscle health. Staying hydrated also helps prevent cramps and fatigue, which can lead to injuries.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While minor aches can often be managed with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E), it’s important to know when to seek professional help. Contact a sports medicine specialist if your child experiences:

• Persistent or worsening pain despite rest.
• Swelling that doesn’t go down after a couple of days.
• Difficulty walking or bearing weight.
• A “popping” sensation followed by pain and instability.
• Limited range of motion in the knee.

Prompt evaluation ensures that injuries are properly diagnosed and treated, preventing further complications or chronic conditions.

How We Can Help

At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, we specialize in treating and preventing sports-related injuries in athletes of all ages. Our experienced team combines state-of-the-art technology with personalized care to get your young athlete back in the game safely.

We offer:

• Comprehensive diagnosis and imaging services.
• Individualized treatment plans, including physical therapy and advanced procedures.
• Guidance on injury prevention, tailored to your child’s sport and activity level.

If you’re concerned about knee pain or want to ensure your athlete is performing at their best, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Knee pain in young athletes is all too common, but with the right preventative measures and prompt care, it doesn’t have to be a long-term hurdle. Encourage your young athlete to listen to their body, prioritize recovery, and seek help when needed.

Schedule an appointment today with Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center to keep your athlete pain-free and playing their best.

Call POSMC today!

To schedule an appointment with one our specialists, contact our scheduling department at 972-250-5700 or request an appointment online.

POSMC is a full-service medical facility specializing in the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic injuries. The practice is led by a group of 12 board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons and a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician. Contact us today!