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The aim of this study was to determine the 4‐week prevalence of pain medication use in youth athletes, the type of medication used, the reasons for use, and from where the athletes obtained the medication. 466 handball players (aged 14‐18) were surveyed about their pain medication use within the preceding 4 weeks. The questionnaire consisted of 3 parts: type of pain medication used (if any; non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen/paracetamol, and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA)), the reasons for use, and from where it was obtained. 190 players (41% [95% CI 36%‐45%]) reported pain medication use within the last 4 weeks. Paracetamol was the most reported type (n = 157, 83% [95% CI 77%‐88%]), followed by NSAIDs (n = 98, 52% [95% CI 44%‐59%]); 67 reported “injury‐related reasons” for their use, and most participants reported to obtain the pain medication via “from home or bought over‐the‐counter (OTC)” (n = 167, 88% [95% CI 82%‐92%]). Pain medication use in youth handball players is common, particularly among female players, and a substantial proportion of the overall use is due to injury‐related reasons. The vast majority of the players got their pain medication from home or purchased it OTC. Further research is needed to comprehend these patterns of use, including the long‐term use.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate if upper limb visual feedback training added to the usual therapy was effective on upper limb functions in children with cerebral palsy. Methods: Thirty-eight children with cerebral palsy (4-18 years) participated in the study. The participants were randomly assigned into two groups. Study group (n=19) received visual feedback training plus usual therapy twice a week for 8 weeks, 16 sessions in total, while control group received only usual therapy. The participants’ Gross Motor Function Classification System levels were between I-III and spasticity levels were between ‘0’ to ‘1+’ according to Modified Ashworth Scale. Upper limb range of motion (ROM), grip and pinch strength, hand skills, and functional abilities were assessed before and after treatment. Results: The change amount in shoulder flexion (p=0.004) and abduction (p=0.01), supination (p=0.019) and wrist flexion (p=0.004) and extension (p=0.00) ROM values; bilateral Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test scores (p=0.003) were statistically significantly improved in study group compared to control group. Conclusion: Adding visual feedback training to the usual therapy program of children with cerebral palsy was found to be effective in some outcome measurements. In the long-term rehabilitation process, this new training method may be an alternative additive option for children, families and physiotherapists.

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