Growing pains and growth injuries

Do they exist? The reported pain is very real Relates to the rapidly growing skeletal tissue Muscles react to the growing bones Where the muscles and tendons insert are often the areas most sore No damage occurs just inflammation Best managed with heat, massage, light stretching, compression, analgesia, activity modification

Growth plate injuries

Heel Pain “Severs Disease”

When can the player return to running and sport? When there is no more swelling, resting pain They can load the area without pain, rock back on heels, hop, squat There is no limping For heel pain: Modify running so less heel contact Ice immediately after training Ensure the modifiable factors are addressed for example Asics versus Nike Reduce running volume through the week Insert heel cup, orthotics, review boots, joggers How sore during and afterwards? Medication? Planning the return to play Periodisation altering the type, volume, intensity to reduce overuse injuries Start of season going from thongs to boots Whole leg and core need conditioning

Heel Pain Reduce running Skills Address modifiables Continue to train Non-weight bearing ex Function & strengthen Can they: Walk on heels Hop Run on toes Slowly increase running volume Return to match play Continue preventative routine

Osgood Schlatters Disease

Coloured card system for return to sport Yellow Card Green Card Coloured card system for return to sport