As a parent, coach or athlete, being able to quickly assess the severity of an injury at a sporting event, during training or at a competition is important. These injuries can be serious and debilitating, with early diagnosis and treatment offering the best possible outcome.
Not all sports injuries are serious or require emergency or urgent care. On the other hand, some injuries are very easy to overlook and assume they are minor, only to find out later they are much more significant and serious.
To help, here is a basic guideline to determine if emergency or non-emergency medical treatment should be considered. Whenever there is a question with sports injuries, erring on the side of caution and getting an expert medical diagnosis of the condition is the best option.
Significant Swelling, Bruising and Heat
While it is normal for sprains, strains and even repetitive motion injuries to swell, bruise and even feel hot to the touch, this may also be a sign of a more significant injury. Elevate, use cold compresses and restriction movement and monitor the area. If the symptoms persist, see your doctor or sports injury specialist as soon as possible.
Inability to Bear Weight or to Have Range of Motion
If the swelling, bruising or heat is accompanied with the inability to bear weight or the inability to move the limb or body part, seek emergency medical attention. This type of sports injuries can include fractures that need to be treated immediately to prevent further injuries.
Pain or Discomfort
Any injury from sports, whether from a single trauma or from repeated use, should be monitored for pain. Pain is the body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. If a child or adult is in pain shortly after the injury, getting medical attention is important.
At Suburban Orthopaedics, we can help people of all ages with sports injuries or injuries from accidents and trauma. To find out more go to www.suburbanortho.com. You can connect with them on Facebook for latest news and updates!
