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Clinical Management of Pediatric Shoulder and Elbow Injuries: Tools for the Athletic Trainer

Clinical Management of Pediatric Shoulder and Elbow Injuries: Tools for the Athletic Trainer

Only available as part of a package

Abstract:
Pediatric shoulder and elbow injuries present unique diagnostic and treatment challenges due to immature anatomy and injury patterns distinct from adults. With increased youth participation in overhead sports, this session will review common conditions such as physeal fractures, apophysitis, ligament injuries, osteochondritis dissecans, and instability. We will discuss both surgical and non-operative treatment options, using evidence-based research to guide clinical decision-making. Emphasis will be placed on pediatric-specific exam techniques, imaging interpretation, and management strategies. Attendees will enhance their ability to assess, treat, and rehabilitate these injuries, while improving patient and family education to support optimal outcomes in this population.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify common pediatric shoulder and elbow injuries, including physeal fractures, apophysitis, ligamentous disruptions, and instability, and differentiate them from adult presentations.
  • Apply pediatric-specific examination techniques and interpret relevant imaging findings to support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
  • Evaluate evidence-based conservative and surgical management strategies tailored to the pediatric upper extremity population.
  • Develop individualized rehabilitation plans in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, while enhancing patient and family education to improve adherence and outcomes.

Level:
Advanced

Domain(s):
Domain 1: Risk Reduction Wellness and Health Literacy 
Domain 2: Assessment Evaluation and Diagnosis  
Domain 4: Therapeutic Intervention 

Orthopedic Domain(s):
N/A

Keywords:
Rehabilitation; imaging; differential diagnoses;

CEUs:
1.0 Category A

A Statement of Credit reflecting your CEUs will be issued immediately upon the successful completion of all course components. 


Course Expiration: 
All sessions of the NATA 77th Symposia On-Demand must be completed by December 31, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. CST.
For full details, refer to the expiration policy on our FAQ page.

Matthew Brewer, MS, LAT, ATC

Matthew Brewer is an athletic trainer in the physician's practice setting with over 18 years of experience. He is currently the associate clinical manager for the Sports Medicine Center at Children's Hospital Colorado. Matthew has worked in numerous settings within the Sports Medicine Center, including the secondary school and club outreach setting.  However, he transitioned fully into the clinical setting in 2018, and has since found his true home. He has worked with numerous providers within the sports medicine center and orthopedics institute, specifically with our primary care sports medicine team, Sports Medicine Orthopedic surgeons, trauma team, cerebral palsy, and limb deformities. Matthew has given numerous talks about a wide range of athletic training topics at the local, regional, and national levels.  In his spare time, Matthew enjoys spending time with his family including his wife and two boys.  He currently lives in Denver, CO, but is a native Iowan. 

This content will not be available until 07/31/2026 at 12:00 AM (CDT)