Coaches, competitors and sideline supporters should have basic knowledge of first aid for sports injuries. During training sessions athletes can get hurt as easily as at big events where paramedics are on standby. Because of the physical action involved in sport the most common sports injury is internal damage to muscles, ligaments and other soft tissue as a result of sprains, strains, bumps and falls.
Symptoms of Musculoskeletal Injuries
The main symptoms of this type of injury are swelling and pain – both of these being the body's own way of immobilizing the area to prevent further damage. There may also be bruising which is caused by bleeding under the skin.
RICE Therapy
Four-step RICE therapy is the recommended first-aid treatment for injury to muscles and ligaments.
Rest - The injured person should not be allowed to continue with the sporting activity as this can lead to further injury and long-term damage to the injured limb. Limit weight bearing on the injured body part as well as any movement.
Ice - Apply ice to the damaged area for no longer than 20 minutes at a time. Find an ice pack in a spectator's cool box or ask for some ice at the cold drink stand, crush it and put it in a plastic bag. Place a cloth between the ice pack and the skin to prevent frostbite. The 20-minute ice treatment may be repeated four to eight times in 24 hours.
Compression – Compression of the injured area helps to reduce swelling as well as providing support for the injured area. If a first aid box with a bandage is not available improvise a substitute - like a long sock or a scarf. The bandage should be applied tight enough to provide support but must not limit blood flow to the rest of the limb.
Elevation – lift the injured part, preferably to above the level of the heart. This improves blood flow and reduces swelling.
Further Management of the Injury
Paracetemol and Ibuprofen can be given for the pain and swelling. Keep an eye on the injured person, especially if he or she could also have had a bump on the head. Nausea, vomiting, blurry vision and any signs of mental confusion could indicate concussion which is easily overlooked while paying attention to the more visible injuries.
Exercise and other activities should be limited for at least 48 hours after injury. Ice packs, compression and elevation can be continued depending on the swelling and pain. While sleeping, the affected limb should be elevated on a pillow. Activity is resumed with caution as an injured muscle or ligament is weakened and prone to a repeat injury.
When to See a Health Care Provider
It is often not possible to distinguish between a soft tissue injury and a fracture without an X-ray. A health care provider should be consulted if there is any doubt about the seriousness of the injury. This is especially called for in the case of severe pain, swelling and limitation of movement which does not show at least some improvement from the RICE therapy; if the injured area appears crooked or has abnormal bumps apart from the swelling; or if there is numbness in the injured area.
Accessible Treatment for Sport Injuries
Immediate and effective RICE therapy for muscle and ligament injuries reduces discomfort, further injury and time off from activities. This simple four-step treatment can be applied by anyone, anywhere and can be taught to school-age children, preparing them to help their peers on the sports field or even the playground.
Source
NIAMS (2009) Questions and Answers About Sprains and Strains. NIH. Accessed on 18/11/2011
Frieda Paton - A published nurse author, Frieda has variety in her life being a part-time nurse, business owner and craft producer.
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