Eighteen-year-old Emily Rodriguez from San Antonio is a fierce competitor on the basketball court, but her dedication to the sport has come at a cost. Despite her love for the game and the adrenaline rush it provides, Rodriguez has faced multiple injuries over the years, including fractures in her hand, foot, and back.
Rodriguez is just one of many children and teens experiencing overuse injuries, particularly stress fractures, at a young age. Dr. Hector Lopez of Sports Medicine Associates San Antonio has noticed a concerning trend of younger patients suffering from these types of injuries, with some cases as young as eight years old.
The culture of increased competitiveness and early specialization in youth sports is contributing to these injuries. Kids are pushing themselves to the limit, often participating in the same sport year-round with repetitive movements that can lead to stress fractures over time.
Dr. Lopez emphasizes the importance of rest and recovery in preventing and treating these injuries. He advises young athletes and parents to listen to their bodies and not ignore any aches and pains. Proper nutrition, sleep, and stretching are also crucial in maintaining overall health and preventing overuse injuries.
As Rodriguez prepares to graduate from the Young Women’s Leadership Academy, she is shifting her focus from competitive basketball to a potential career in sports medicine. Despite her own struggles with injuries, she remains passionate about sports and hopes to help others avoid similar challenges in the future.