Sports emergencies in the pediatric population

In recent years there have been changes in the patterns of pediatric physical activity. Most children are now less physically active, and this fact leads to the emergence of childhood obesity and its complications. On the other hand, there is an increase in the number of children and adolescents participating in organized competitive sports. These changes have led to an increased number of children and adolescents seeking emergency evaluation and treatment due to sports-related injuries. Approximately one third of overall injuries in childhood and adolescence are sports-related injuries. Head, neck and chest injuries are among the most important sports-related injuries. In addition, sports participation could lead to severe injury and, rarely, even death in children with underlying heart diseases. Other conditions that may endanger children engaged in sports are related to heat illness or allergic reactions. This article reviews these sports-related emergencies, their diagnosis, treatment and ways of prevention.