Title
Female athletes: managing risk and maximizing benefit.
Publication Date
2018
Journal Title
Curr Opin Pediatr
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW:The purpose of this review is to provide an updated summary on the unique aspects of caring for female youth and adolescent athletes. RECENT FINDINGS:Recent research on female athletes has led to a better understanding of injuries and conditions that are more likely to occur in female youth and adolescent athletes, including the frequency and severity of concussions, musculoskeletal injury such as involving the anterior cruciate ligament, and the female athlete triad. Social factors, such as the growing pressure to specialize in a sport particularly at an early age, also put young female athletes at risk for issues such as overuse injuries. Researchers continue to explore the benefits of athletic participation that extend beyond physical fitness. SUMMARY:Female participation in youth sports has increased dramatically during the past 50 years. This has led to greater research on how to manage risks and maximize benefits for young female athletes, although there is still much to be learned. Providers should educate patients, parents, and coaches on both the increased risks for female athletes and ways to provide better support and accessibility of youth sports to all children.
Volume Number
30
Issue Number
6
Pages
874-882
Document Type
Article
Status
Faculty
Facility
School of Medicine
Primary Department
General Pediatrics
PMID
DOI
10.1097/mop.0000000000000700