Sports injuries in children. Necessary consequence of competition?

Evaluation of the benefits and risks of organized children's sports is difficult, but even play activities carry risks. The benefits of participation--eg, physical conditioning, accomplishment, and enjoyment--need to be weighed against the physical and/or psychological disadvantages. Social consciousness has been raised, studies are under way, and statistics are accumulating. Physicians, school and legislative advisers, and concerned parents all have a responsibility to promote safety, to provide appropriate care, and to prevent psychological harm.