A study published by the Journal of Pediatrics reported girls are at a much higher risk for overuse injuries than boys in high school sports, according to Epoch Times. The study analyzed approximately 3,000 cases, studying male and female injury across 20 high school sports.
Here are eight things to know:
1. Female athletes in track, lacrosse and field hockey saw the highest rates of overuse injuries.
2. Overuse injuries in the female athletes resulted in stress fractures, tendonitis and joint pain.
3. Swimming and diving proved to provide the most overuse injuries in male athletes.
4. Freshmen female athletes were at the highest risk for injury. The risk declined as they progressed through high school.
5. Male athletes exhibited an opposing pattern. Their risk was highest in their senior year with a lower risk as freshmen.
6. Researchers are unsure as to why the study yielded these results. More studies must be conducted to draw definite conclusions.
7. The increasing trend of specialization may also be causing more damage. While specialization enhances technique improvement, it could also lead to overuse injury.
8. Nutrition is also crucial to recovery and injury prevention. Athletes need sufficient calcium, vitamin D and extra protein for sore muscles.
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