their growth spurts, when their growth
plates are weaker and more fragile.
The plates are areas of growing tissue
situated at the end of the long bones
in children and young people, which
disappear when you stop growing.
Athletes partaking in high-impact
sports like rugby, gymnastics or long-
distance running are the most likely
to be affected, with wrists, legs, ankles
and hip bones most at risk.
“If children are involved in a
competitive, challenging training
programme, it would be wise to
measure them every couple of
months, and if they are in the midst
of a growth spurt, the intensity
and duration of training should be
modified,” Emma advises. “If left
untreated, growth plate injuries can
result in bone growth disorders and
lasting problems.”
Warming up the muscles
and proper stretching are always
important, but particularly during
a growth spurt, as the muscles will
become tighter as they adjust to the
new length and are more prone to
injury.
Continual communication
amongst the athlete, parents, coach
and health practitioner can limit the
risk potential and help keep young
bodies healthy.
“Even if the child is part of a team,
their training can be individualised to
focus on their particular requirements
at the time, especially if they are
managing a past or present injury,”
says Emma.
Getting back on track
When a young athlete does suffer an
injury, the psychological effects can
be just as damaging as the physical
ones. Time away from training can
leave them feeling disheartened and
disconnected from the team. They may
wonder if they’ll be able to catch up
or if they can ever be as good as they
If left untreated,
growth plate
injuries can
result in bone
growth disorders
and lasting
problems.
June 2014
59
