Acute soft-tissue injuries in the young athlete.

Although the incidence of soft-tissue injury is high in the young athlete, one must be constantly aware of the tendency toward epiphyseal and apophyseal injuries in individuals with open growth plates. After the diagnosis of a soft-tissue injury (sprain, strain, or contusion) has been made, treatment must include an initial 24- to 48-hour period of RICE. Appropriate splinting may be required. Rehabilitation then proceeds aggressively, with early restoration of strength, flexibility, and joint range of motion. Prior to return to full athletic activity, the athlete should meet the criteria outlined in this article. Protective taping or bracing may be necessary upon return to full activity. The treatment of soft-tissue injuries should start with prophylaxis. All predisposing factors to the development of injury should be sought on preparticipation physical examinations and corrected prior to allowing the young athlete to compete. Using the program described as a guide to treating the injured athlete should result in early return to function with low recurrence rates of injury.