If bleeding continues past 30 minutes, seek medical advice.

Hold your nose for at least 10 minutes.

Pinch your nostrils together and breathe through your mouth.

No Massage – massage increases swelling and bleeding, also delaying healing.

No Running – running or exercise increases blood flow, delaying healing.

No Alcohol – alcohol increases bleeding and swelling.

Referral – as soon as possible, see a doctor.

Elevation – raise the injured area above the level of the heart at all times.

Compression – apply a firm elastic bandage over the area, extending above and below the painful site.

Ice – apply ice to the injured area for 20 minutes every two hours for the first 48-72 hours.

Rest – keep the injured area supported and avoid using for 48-72 hours.

Suggestions on immediate treatment for sprains, strains and joint injuries, to prevent further damage include: The impact of repeated jumping or running on hard surfaces can eventually stress and crack bone.įirst aid for sprains, strains and joint injuries

Stress fractures – particularly in the lower limbs.

Nose injuries – either blood nose or broken nose, are caused by a direct blow.

The ligaments, tendons or cartilage can be affected.

Knee joint injuries – symptoms include pain, swelling and stiffness.

Hamstring strain – symptoms include pain, swelling and bruising.

Groin strain – symptoms include pain and swelling.

Dental damage – a blow to the jaw can crack, break or dislodge teeth.

Dehydration – losing too much fluid can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The knees and hands are particularly prone.

Cuts and abrasions – are usually caused by falls.

Symptoms include headache, dizziness and short term memory loss.

Concussion – mild reversible brain injury from a blow to the head, which may be associated with loss of consciousness.

Bruises – a blow can cause small bleeds into the skin.

Ankle sprain – symptoms include pain, swelling and stiffness.

Some of the more common sports injuries include: For example, what seems like an ankle sprain may actually be a bone fracture.

Medical investigation of any sports injury is important, because you may be hurt more severely than you think. Poor technique and structural abnormalities can also contribute to the development of chronic injuries. An injury that occurs suddenly, such as a sprained ankle caused by an awkward landing, is known as an acute injury.Ĭhronic injuries are caused by repeated overuse of muscle groups or joints. There are two kinds of sports injuries: acute and chronic. Sports injuries are commonly caused by overuse, direct impact, or the application of force that is greater than the body part can structurally withstand.

Play first 48 investigation game