Dr. Kevin O'Malley, orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine expert with the Alegent Health Orthopaedic Institute says that most kids are resilient and have the ability to bounce back from the stresses of sports if allowed to train and recuperate properly.

And when asked if the gender of the child should be considered, Dr. O'Malley says, "Girls who play basketball are six times more likely to have knee injuries than boys, and with soccer, girls are three times more likely to suffer knee injuries."

But Dr. O'Malley adds, "There is a happy medium that we have to strive for. Give kids time off between sports seasons. This will help them avoid injuries associated with overuse."

The bottom line says Dr. O'Malley, is that good nutrition, along with proper training and recuperation can help children avoid long-term damage from competitive sports.

Sports Medicine at the Alegent Health Orthopaedic Institute provides specialized care to patients by physicians and staff specially trained in sports medicine. Services are focused on young and adult athletes to provide a variety of services, community outreach and educational programs, medical coverage at local athletic events, rehabilitation services and surgical services.

Find out more about the Alegent Health Orthopaedic Institute.