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Knee Injuries

  • Michelle McTimoney
Chapter
First Online:
Part of the Contemporary Pediatric and Adolescent Sports Medicine book series (PASM)

Abstract

Both acute and chronic knee injuries are common in the pediatric population. Although children and youth share many of the same musculoskeletal diagnoses as adults, there are many diagnoses that are specific to the athlete whose musculoskeletal system is still developing. It is essential to have a thorough understanding of both mature and developing knee anatomy in order to accurately diagnose and manage these injuries. Much of the clinical assessment is specific to anatomy, and an accurate diagnosis can often be made clinically at the bedside. Diagnosis can often be confirmed with plain imaging, CT scan, or MRI, depending on the specific injury considered. Once diagnosis has been confirmed, a collaborative approach to management is essential. The team may include physiotherapists, athletic therapists, and/or orthopedic surgeons in addition to the patient’s primary care physician. Together with an athlete’s coach, it is not only possible, but almost always desirable, to have the young athlete continue to participate in their sport with a tailored training schedule while they are rehabilitating their injury.

Keywords

Apophysis Avulsion Fracture Growth plate/physis Physiotherapy Prevention Return to play Sprain Strain 
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© Springer International Publishing AG, part of Springer Nature 2018

Authors and Affiliations

  • Michelle McTimoney
    • 1
  1. 1.Department of PediatricsAlberta Children’s HospitalCalgaryCanada

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