Parents, as a physical therapist there is no situation where No Pain…No gain is appropriate.  Period.  Believe me, if young athletes want to play they will.  Filling their heads with the idea that sharp, numbing pain in the back of their leg is “okay” will only lead to massive problems down the line.  Sometimes they will have stiff and sore muscles that just need a little more stretching and warm-up…that is fine.  But anytime there is point specific, sharp, or constant pain DO NOT HAVE THEM PUSH THROUGH THE PAIN!  This type of situation requires evaluation by a physician, physical therapist, athletic trainer, or other sports related medical professional.

So, if your child is having pain with any of the following:

·         Walking

·         Jogging

·         Standing

·         Climbing Stairs

·         Sitting

·         Lifting Overhead

·         SLEEPING (THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ONE!!!)

Do not push through.  Talk to a doctor.  These are all very basic, functional daily activities that are a fraction of the intensity of any sport.  If pain is involved with any of these things I can guarantee that playing sports will cause more problems.