|
This routine will never do
harm, even if it is later discovered that there is a
fracture or other serious injury present.
Remember - No H.A.R.M.
- no Heat,
no Alcohol,
no Running,
no Massage
for the first 48 hours.
After 48 hours, treatment with heat may be commenced, and
graduated activity allowed within the limits of
pain.
Referral - For an accurate
diagnosis and to optimize recovery, for all but trivial
injuries, visit a sports doctor or
physiotherapist.
LACERATIONS
Early repair
(stitching) within 3-4 hours, is the best treatment. In the
interim, firm direct compressions with a pad and bandage,
with elevation will control bleeding.
BLISTERS
Keep clean to avoid
infection. Do not remove the covering layer of skin. Drain
fluid by inserting a sterile needle near the edge. Cover
with a clean dry dressing of friction free material if
available e.g. silicone padding.
HEAD
INJURIES
Concussion is
associated with loss of consciousness and/or altered state
of "awareness" following a head injury.
Do
not permit the
player to continue the game or drive a car. He/she should be
referred for medical assessment i.e. see a
doctor.
Deterioration during this
period, especially headache, vomiting, or drowsiness may
indicate internal bleeding and an urgent operation may be
required. The player should be sent to a hospital
immediately. Any lapse into unconsciousness a second time is
a serious sign.
Alcohol is unwise after a
head injury. Match play should not be resumed until a doctor
has cleared the casualty and he/she is completely fit and
free of headache.
In the unconscious casualty
it is essential to ensure that breathing is not obstructed:
the tongue, a mouthguard or chewing gum may cause this.
Place an unconscious casualty on his/her side in the manner
described for spinal injury.
FACIAL
INJURIES
The Nose - A
fracture is quickly masked by swelling. Early medical
attention may permit straightening without an
anaesthetic.
The
Cheekbone - Fracture
is indicated by flattening of the prominence of the cheek
and swelling. Early operation may be required.
The
Lower Jaw - This can
be supported by the victim's hands. Do not apply a
bandage.
The
Eyes - Do not insert
drops or ointments. Cover the injured eye and seek medical
attention.
The
Teeth - A broken
tooth should be treated by a dentist within a few hours to
prevent further damage. If a tooth is knocked out intact it
should be firmly reinserted in its socket as soon as
possible so that it can survive. If it is soiled, it should
be rinsed in milk if available, or sucked clean by the
player for a few seconds before reinsertion. If unable to
replace the tooth, transport it to a dentist either in milk
or wrapped in plastic cling film (e.g. Gladwrap).
Mouthguards prevent most
dental injuries and are strongly recommended.
NECK
AND SPINAL INJURIES
Spinal injuries may
cause paralysis and loss of sensation below the level of
injury. If this is suspected and the player is conscious,
avoid all movement, provide support to each side of the neck
and wait for ambulance assistance.
If unconscious and breathing
normally, again assume a neck injury, gently turn the player
onto his/her side keeping the head, neck and trunk straight
by using assistants - apply gentle traction to the neck.
Support the head and await ambulance assistance.
Any such injury causing
difficulty with breathing, must be regarded as
urgent.
ABDOMINAL
INJURIES
Damage to an
internal organ resulting in bleeding, may be caused by a
knee, elbow, boot or crush. It is indicated by pain, pallor
and perhaps fainting, Spleen, liver or kidney may be
involved. In the case of the latter, blood may appear in the
urine. Simple "winding" should pass off in a few
minutes. Damaged abdominal muscles will cause pain, but the
victim will appear to be quite well. Any suspicion of damage
within the abdomen requires prompt transport to
hospital.
KNEE
AND ANKLE INJURIES
These are often
serious. If the player cannot readily get up, he/she should
be carried off. Rapid swelling means bleeding, and usually
indicates serious injury requiring urgent medical attention.
Apply R.I.C.E.R.
(as above).
FRACTURES
OF THE LIMBS
A fracture should be
suspected if there is pain, swelling, local tenderness and
loss of strength or movement.
For the upper limb, the most comfortable position is in a
sling. The lower limb can be padded and bandaged to the
opposite limb.
When handling, be gentle but firm. When lifting the limb
ensure that the fracture is fully supported.
TRANSPORT
Speed more often
increases the injury and endangers others lives. If
transport of any serious injury is required ring an
ambulance on, 000, and make sure a clear airway is
maintained. In the case of less severe injury transport in
position of most comfort.
Sports Medicine
Australia (SA Branch) - Courses
Sports Medicine
Australia (SA Branch) conducts courses in a number of sports
related topics. All National Pharmacies members interested
in taking any of the individual courses are entitled to a
20%
discount on their
enrolment fee.
Here is a list of the
courses available:
For a full list of courses click
here.
|
The information
supplied at National Pharmacies Online is not
intended nor is it implied to be a substitute for
medical advice. The information supplied is not
intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease,
ailment, treatment or condition. Full Advice
Disclaimer click
here.
|
National Pharmacies
Online™
Friendly Society Medical Association Limited
ACN 088 347 602 | © 2000 FSMA
Please read our Disclaimer
and Policies
|
