O Diagnóstico da Raquialgia no Atleta Jovem – uma Revisão Bibliográfica

Back pain in the young athlete is as frequent as its diagnosis is challenging due to the multiplicity of diagnostic hypotheses. Although most cases are based on poor mechanics and muscle strains, not all are innocent or self-limited. The physician must know the anatomical and physiological characteristics of immature spine, as well as the sport-specific injuries. It is imperative to obtain a complete clinical history and a complete physical exam, including neurological examination and specific provocative tests. After finding the pathology, proper treatment can help the patient returning safely to sports activity.

Epidemiology and prevention of injuries in competitive non-contact sports

This chapter discusses the aetiology and prevention of paediatric sports injuries in non-contact sports, and the chapter covers bicycling, dance, gymnastics, running, skiing, snowboarding, swimming, tennis, badminton, and volleyball, which were selected based on their worldwide popularity. Each sport is covered in a systematic manner including a brief introduction of the sport practise, the epidemiology and aetiology of sport-specific injuries, risk factors, and preventive strategies. Because of similarities, skiing and snowboarding are grouped and discussed together, as are tennis and badminton. The knowledge summarized should be implemented in real-life situations in order to encourage children and adolescents to participate in sports where they will experience the well-known health benefits of sports participation, but with the lowest risk possible.

Epidemiology and prevention of injuries in competitive contact sports

Generally, sports injuries in contact sports are more frequent than in non-contact sports. Contact sports are those sports in which contact with the opponent is common or intentional. This chapter focuses on sport-specific injuries that occur in various contact sports, including soccer, American football, ice hockey, basketball, martial arts, and wrestling. Each sport is covered by exploring practical information concerning the particular sport, as well as the epidemiology and aetiology of sport-specific injuries, and there is also a summary containing sport-specific preventive strategies. Where possible, this chapter also covers trends that can be drawn from the literature to give a foundation on which to develop and promote injury prevention strategies.

Aetiology and prevention of injuries in youth competitive contact sports

Other chapters in this section have covered the theoretical framework regarding the aetiology and prevention of sports injuries as well as, more specific, the aetiology and prevention of injuries in non-contact youth competition sports. This chapter will focus on sport specific injuries in contact sports. A number of sports where contact with the opponent is intentional or common have therefore been selected.