2021 Annual Meeting Pediatrics Access Pass-The Effect of Single Sport Specialization in Youth Sports: A Prospective Cohort Study

The Effect of Single Sport Specialization in Youth Sports: A Prospective Cohort Study

Video Transcription

Video Summary

David Lee, a fourth-year medical student, presented a study on sports specialization and injury rates among high school athletes in southern New Jersey. Tracking 925 athletes over several years, the study found 27% specialized by senior year. Specialized athletes reported higher injury rates—particularly ankle sprains and concussions—with injuries spanning mild to severe severities. However, injury rates did not vary based on when or how long athletes specialized. Limitations included incomplete injury reporting, language barriers, and lack of competition level data. The study suggests sports specialization increases injury risk, though the timing and extent of specialization might not influence injury severity.

Asset Caption

Dr. Donghoon Lee

Keywords

sports specialization

injury rates

high school athletes

ankle sprains

concussions