Game Over or Keep Playing? Deciding When to Pull Your Child Out of a Sport Due to Injury

As a parent, it's essential to prioritize your child's health and well-being above all else, especially when they're participating in sports. Injuries are common in youth sports, but knowing when it's time to pull your child out of a sport due to injury can be challenging. At Active Recovery Boston, led by Dr. Kelly and her team, we understand the importance of keeping young athletes safe and healthy.

In this blog post, we will explore the signs that indicate it's time for your child to step back from their sport due to injury, and how Dr. Kelly and her team can help them recover effectively. We'll also discuss when it's appropriate to schedule a consultation with our team of professionals.

Signs That Indicate It's Time to Pull Your Child Out of a Sport


While some injuries are obvious and require immediate attention, others may be more subtle or develop gradually over time. Here are some key indicators that your child may need to take a break from their sport:

  1. Persistent pain: If your child is experiencing pain that doesn't go away with rest or continues after several days, it's time to consult a professional. Persistent pain could be a sign of an underlying issue that requires treatment. In other words, if its not fleeting pain but it seems to be hanging around it can often be an overuse injury that needs to be attended to before it gets out of control. 

  2. Swelling or inflammation: Swelling is a common response to injury, but if it persists for more than a day or two, it may indicate a more serious problem. Don't ignore swelling, as it could lead to further complications.

  3. Decreased range of motion: If your child has difficulty moving their joints or experiences stiffness, it's essential to address the issue. Limited mobility can cause additional strain on the body and exacerbate existing injuries. If you notice a gait change that continues more than a few days, you will want to get it checked out sooner than later.

  4. Visible deformity: If your child's limb looks twisted or out of place after an injury, seek immediate medical attention. This could indicate a dislocation or fracture that needs urgent care. This is obvious but just have to mention.

Helping Your Child Recover from Injury with Dr. Kelly and Her Team


If you've determined that your child needs to take a break from their sport due to injury, it's essential to help them recover effectively. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Seek professional help: Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kelly or Dr. Tran at Active Recovery Boston by calling 617-959-4558 to discuss your child's situation and receive expert guidance on the best course of action.

  2. Rest and recuperation: Encourage your child to rest and give their body time to heal. This may involve taking a break from both practice and competition for a period of time. A reminder that children and adolescents heal fast, so this time off will pay off. 

  3. Sports chiropractic therapy: Depending on the severity of the injury, your child may benefit from chiropractic therapy sessions with Dr. Kelly and her experienced team at Active Recovery Boston. We can help develop a customized treatment plan to facilitate recovery and prevent future injuries.

  4. Maintain a positive attitude: Support your child through the recovery process, and remind them that taking time off is necessary for their long-term health and success in their sport.

When to Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Kelly and Her Team at Active Recovery Boston


If your child is experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, or if you're concerned about their well-being while participating in sports, it's important to seek professional advice. At Active Recovery Boston, Dr. Kelly  and Dr. Tran and her team of professionals can help guide you and your child through the recovery process and ensure they're able to return to their sport safely.

Located in Franklin, MA , we're here to support both athletes and non-athletes alike. Contact us today at 617-959-4558 or visit our website to schedule a consultation and discuss your child's needs.

In conclusion, recognizing when to pull your child out of a sport due to injury is crucial for their overall health and safety. By familiarizing yourself with the signs that indicate it's time for a break, you can help prevent further complications and ensure your child has a successful future in sports under the guidance of Dr. Kelly and her team at Active Recovery Boston.