Doctors can treat them. Parents and coaches can prevent them.
Sports are a fantastic way for young athletes to stay active, develop discipline, and learn the value of teamwork. However, the rise of early sports specialization—where children under 12 focus on just one sport and train year-round—has led to an increase in overuse injuries, stress, and even premature dropout from sports.
The Risks of Early Sports Specialization
Young athletes who specialize in one sport for at least three seasons a year at the exclusion of other activities place repetitive stress on their developing bodies. As a result, they’re more prone to overuse injuries—gradual damage caused by repetitive movement without adequate recovery time.
Orthopedic surgeons frequently treat sports-related broken bones and muscle injuries, but preventing these injuries is just as important as treating them. That’s why organizations like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) launched the OneSport™ campaign to educate parents, coaches, and athletes about the dangers of early specialization and how to keep kids healthy while staying competitive.
Facts About Overuse Injuries in Youth Sports
Overuse injuries develop over time, but their effects can last a lifetime—impacting not only an athlete’s performance but their long-term health and quality of life.
When young athletes repeatedly participate in a single sport, their bodies may not have enough time to heal properly between training and competition. High-intensity, repetitive training can lead to serious injuries affecting the shoulders, knees, elbows, and wrists, sometimes requiring surgery.
While some degree of sports specialization is necessary for elite athletes, the debate continues on how early intense training should begin.
Expert Orthopedic Care from Dr. Glen T. Feltham at SpecOrtho
At SpecOrtho, board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Glen T. Feltham specializes in treating both pediatric and adult sports injuries. With extensive experience—including serving as a team physician for multiple colleges and the U.S. National Soccer Teams—Dr. Feltham focuses on minimally invasive treatments and personalized recovery plans designed to keep young athletes performing at their best.
Overuse Injury Statistics Among Young Athletes (Ages 5–14)
Among young athletes in various sports, overuse injuries occur frequently:
- 28% of football players
- 25% of baseball players
- 22% of soccer players
- 15% of basketball players
- 12% of softball players
Preventing Overuse Injuries & Encouraging Healthy Play
The best way to avoid overuse injuries is through balanced training, ensuring young athletes don’t overwork the same muscles and joints year-round. Here are some expert recommendations from Dr. Feltham and the SpecOrtho team to reduce injury risk:
✔ Encourage multisport participation—varying movements and muscle use can prevent overuse injuries.
✔ Prioritize recovery time—proper rest between practices and games helps growing bodies heal.
✔ Use age-appropriate training methods—too much intensity too soon can lead to long-term damage.
✔ Stretch and strengthen supporting muscles—injury prevention starts with flexibility and stability.
At SpecOrtho, Dr. Feltham and his team are committed to supporting young athletes, helping them recover from injuries and preventing future ones. Healthy competition should never come at the cost of long-term health—ensuring young players get proper care can help them stay in motion and stay strong!
