Early detection of potentially serious medical conditions is important in children and teens. Psychosocial issues important to health may also be identified. The physician will pay attention to poor nutrition, family violence, and the use of alcohol and other drugs that must be addressed.

In addition, the physician can play a key role in educating the athlete about ways to prevent injuries. Proper hydration, preseason and in season conditioning, and warm-ups are essential to injury prevention. Players should also be counseled on the use of proper equipment for each sport.

Michael Jordan, MD, et al. Pediatric Fractures in Sports: Epidemiology and Strategies for Prevention. In The Journal of Musculoskeletal Medicine. May 2008. Vol. 25. No. 5. Pp. 230-235.

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