With school coming back into session, many kids will join intramurals and sports teams. This will keep them active both physically and socially.
However, with any physical activity, injury can occur. Learn about common sports injury treatments!
Each year, about 2 million injuries occur during high school sports. Did you know that improper injury treatment can create a more serious issue? Keep reading to earn how to get proper treatment for your child’s sports injuries!
A bump on the head always causes a scare. The resulting injury can range from mild to life-threatening.
If your child gets hit on the head while playing a sport and they seem completely fine, they may just need a ten-minute ice-break.
But, if they exhibit the following symptoms, visit your local urgent care immediately:
Even if they seem fine at first, watch them for the next couple days. Concussion symptoms can creep up later.
The doctor will complete an exam to make sure they did not suffer bleeding or severe swelling in the brain, which would send them to the emergency department. For mild concussions, you can expect a prescription for lots of both physical and mental rest. This means limited to no use of electronics! They should feel better in about 3-10 days.
A strain refers to an injury to the muscle. You can usually treat a minor muscle injury with RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression Elevation.)
Muscle strains typically heal within a week. If it takes longer or your child experiences severe pain, significant swelling, or blood streaks beneath the skin, they may suffer from a muscle tear and should seek medical attention.
Sprains are injuries to one or more ligaments that connect bone to bone. These typically require a trip to urgent care for diagnosis.
Treatment for a sprain also requires RICE. However, this injury may put your child on the bench for a solid 4-6 weeks.
Contact sports can sometimes lead to broken bones. These are some of the most common types of sports injuries. If you suspect that your child’s bone is broken, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
You can head to urgent care unless the bone breaks through the skin. In that case, head to the ED.
When the break occurs, immobilize it, then apply ice to reduce swelling and pain. It may require a splint or cast to allow the bone to heal properly. Broken bones typically heal in about 8 weeks.
Unfortunately, teeth make it to the list of injuries, especially with sports like hockey. Dental injuries require medical attention ASAP.
If the child suffers a chipped tooth, cover the jagged edge with wax or sugarless gum to prevent cuts in the mouth. Cold compresses and soft foods will help limit pain and swelling.
If the tooth gets knocked out, pick up the tooth by the chewing end, not the root, and gently rinse it with water. If possible, place the tooth back into the socket.
If you cannot place it back into the socket, pack it in between the child’s cheek and gums to protect it. Get medical care within a half hour.
Often times, sports injury treatment is urgent. Immediate care facilities are almost always available for the care your child needs.
Why wait for an appointment with the pediatrician when we can help you now? Contact us with any questions or concerns as you make your decision for care.
