It is estimated that up to 80% of adults and adolescents in the U.S. do not get enough physical activity. Yet, we know daily exercise is crucial, especially for young people still growing and developing.

Guidelines for preschool children recommend three hours of physical activity per day. The activity can vary in intensity, and the guidelines don’t specify recommendations on the types of exercise. However, it is essential to monitor how much activity youngsters are getting at their daycare centers, preschools and elementary schools as well as at home. Young kids need to engage in enough physical activity as they rapidly develop both physically and emotionally.

A crucial question: How can we help youngsters meet the guidelines if they’ve suffered an orthopedic injury, particularly an injury to the lower extremities? Their injuries might result in just a temporary decrease in activity. In such a case, after consultation with a doctor, kids should try to remain as active as possible without compromising their healing.

Among young kids, temporary injuries are typically fractures. Fractures often are treated with immobilization and activity restrictions. If it becomes necessary to avoid weight-bearing, it presents a tougher challenge to stay active. Water therapy or swimming can be an enjoyable activity in this situation with the use of waterproof casts and braces. It is also important for kids to maintain social interaction with their peers, even if they are unable to participate fully. As long as these children have proper supervision and maintain their restrictions, going to playgrounds is helpful for their emotional and social development.

In older children and adolescents, fractures also are common orthopedic injuries, but sprains, strains and overuse injuries are issues, too. It is vital to maintain the physical activity guidelines at this age, but with two caveats: first, kids should not specialize in a single sport too early; second, their bodies need adequate rest. Overuse injuries are increasing as kids at younger ages begin to specialize in a single sport and play it year-round without periods of rest.
 

Kids with chronic disabilities vary in involvement. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider regarding specific limitations and recommendations. Physical and occupational therapy often play a crucial role in maintaining activity levels for children who have special needs. But kids with limited lower extremity function may be able to get significant physical activity, and the benefits it brings, from upper extremity exercise.

One of the best ways to encourage young people to make physical activity a priority—regardless of whether they’ve suffered an orthopedic injury—is by modeling it for them. Family walks around the neighborhood after dinner, a trip to a park or an adventurous hike are some activities that can help the young people in your life focus on staying active. And remember, the benefits of activity go beyond the physical gains. They also include psychological, social and developmental benefits that can last a lifetime.