Youth sports are a wonderful way for kids and teens to build confidence, stay active, and learn teamwork. But with all the benefits of playing sports, there’s always the risk of injury. At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, we often see young athletes with similar concerns from parents: What is the most common injury in youth sports—and how can it be prevented?
The Most Common Youth Sports Injury: Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains top the list as the most frequent injury in youth athletics. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, football, or track, quick pivots and sudden stops put stress on the ankle joint. When a child “rolls” or twists their ankle, the ligaments that support the joint can stretch or tear—causing pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.
Why Ankle Sprains Happen
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High activity level: Young athletes often practice or play several days a week.
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Still developing bodies: Children’s bones and ligaments are still growing, which can make them more vulnerable.
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Uneven playing surfaces: Grass fields, outdoor courts, or poorly maintained turf can increase risk.
Other Common Youth Sports Injuries
While ankle sprains are the most common, they’re not the only injuries we see. Some of the most frequent youth sports injuries include:
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Knee injuries (ACL tears, patellar tendonitis) – especially common in soccer, basketball, and football.
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Shoulder injuries (rotator cuff strains, dislocations) – more frequent in baseball, softball, and swimming.
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Overuse injuries (stress fractures, shin splints, Little League elbow) – caused by repetitive movements without enough rest.
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Concussions – often occurring in contact sports such as football, hockey, and cheerleading.
How to Prevent Youth Sports Injuries
While it’s impossible to avoid every injury, there are steps parents, coaches, and athletes can take to reduce risk:
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Encourage proper warm-ups and stretching before practices and games.
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Make sure your child has well-fitted shoes and safety gear.
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Remind athletes to listen to their bodies and rest when they’re sore or tired.
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Promote cross-training instead of focusing on just one sport year-round.
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Schedule regular physicals to ensure your child is healthy enough for athletic activity.
When to Seek Medical Help
If your child experiences sudden pain, swelling, or trouble using the affected limb, it’s important to get evaluated by an orthopedic specialist. At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center (POSMC), our team of physicians specializes in diagnosing and treating sports-related injuries in children and teens. We use advanced imaging and customized treatment plans to help young athletes recover safely and get back to the activities they love.
Trusted Sports Injury Care in Plano, TX
At POSMC, we’ve been helping families in Plano and the surrounding North Texas communities for decades. From sprains and fractures to more complex sports injuries, our goal is to keep your child active, healthy, and safe.
If your young athlete has suffered an injury, don’t wait. Contact Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center today