Field side guide to common sports injuries

 Field-side Guide to Sports Injuries

One of the most difficult things “sports parents” do is wait patiently on the sideline when their child-athlete is injured on the playing fields. While many high school sports provide onsite first aid support from team trainers, other organized sports such as community teams and travel clubs may rely on coaches and parents to make injury-related decisions and even provide first-response care for non-emergencies. 

The best way to handle these situations is to be prepared and respond quickly, and this handy guide may help.

Is it an emergency situation?

If a player experiences a medical emergency – either due to an injury or medical condition – it’s important to contact first responders right away. Any type of head injury, especially one that includes loss of consciousness or confusion, warrants a 9-1-1 call. The same is true for bone fractures and joint dislocations, since these are best immobilized to avoid additional injury. 

Should you go to the ER or orthopaedist’s office?

Once you’ve determined that emergency medical care is not needed, the next step is deciding if emergency room care or an orthopaedist’s office visit is the best next step. Skip the ER and head directly to an orthopaedist with:  

• Sprains and Strains: Mild to moderate sprains and muscle strains, common in sports and daily activities, typically require the specialized care that an orthopedic doctor can provide. 
• Fractures: Stable fractures, where the bone remains aligned, can often be treated by an orthopedic doctor, including casting, bracing, and other non-surgical interventions. 
• Other Sports Injuries: Injuries sustained during sports that impact performance but don’t involve severe trauma, such as ACL tears, meniscus injuries, or rotator cuff tears, should be evaluated by an orthopedic specialist. 

What can you do on-site?

The majority of sports injury treatments can begin immediately, starting with sitting out. Once a player is benched, a well-packed first aid kit can be a valuable tool to begin treatment.

A well-stocked sports first aid kit is essential for handling common injuries on the field, court, or track. Here’s a comprehensive list of items typically included:

For basic wound care – Adhesive bandages (various sizes), sterile gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, antiseptic cream or ointment, sterile saline solution (for cleaning wounds or eyes)

For injury treatment – Instant cold packs, elastic bandages (e.g., Ace bandages), cohesive wrap (sticks to itself, not skin), zinc oxide or athletic tape, blister treatment pads or plasters, heat packs or wraps (for muscle soreness) 

For pain inflammation management – Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen), anti-inflammatory cream, antihistamines (for allergic reactions), burn cream or gel

Having these resources with you can also help you start RICE protocol right away: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.

Should there be follow-up treatment?

It’s never a mistake to see a physician following a sports injury, if only to confirm that conservative treatment is the best route. A physician’s office can provide x-rays and other diagnostic tests to confirm field-side assumptions and provide prescription medication as needed for pain or infection. DOC Orthopaedics can provide same-day appointments for sports injuries, so you’ll find the responsiveness of an ER and the expertise of an orthopaedic practice.  

If you’re heading back to school – and fall sports – with a student athlete, you may want to consider a visit with a specialist at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. Since 1972, our specialists have been committed to providing exceptional orthopaedic care through innovative techniques, quality services, patient communication, and education. With specialties ranging from general orthopaedics and physical therapy to sports medicine and more, the doctors at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine can provide local expert guidance to avoid injury, as well as any necessary care for any orthopaedic disorder or injury to help keep your student athlete on track.