Pee-wee to Varsity: Treating the Developing Athlete Across the Lifespan

“Kids are not small adults” is the mantra seen across the youth athletics world, yet not all developing athletes are the same. Developing athletes experience a variety of changes as they mature through childhood, pre-adolescence, and adolescence. These include physiological changes as well as ever-evolving sport specific demands, school requirements, and peer pressures. Psychosocial and physiological research currently points to different decision-making strategies across the athletic development continuum. Are we as physical therapists considering all of these elements? Are we recognizing the various needs of our athletes at each stage of development?
Speakers who specialize in youth sports medicine physical therapy will cover a range of topics essential for evidence-based care of athletes at all stages. Insight on physical differences between the gender and biological ages will be provided, highlighting special considerations on proper loading for each . Participants will also learn to employ the best evidence-based care for various psychosocial aspects. This session will equip audience members with the knowledge, understanding, and confidence to provide optimal care for any developing athlete from childhood through adolescence