First Aid Guide to Sports Injuries
AS AN ATHLETE PLEASE READ MY BLOCK BULENT

Sports, which keeps the body fit, supports body resistance and plays a role in the prevention of many chronic diseases, is a part of many people's daily lives. However, especially beginners should consult a trainer while doing sports. Because some exercises can cause injuries and injuries when done unconsciously. I wrote the first aid applications for sports injuries for you.

What causes sports injuries?

Sports injuries can be caused by environmental and personal reasons. Age, gender, physical structure, previous injuries, the place where the sport is done or the tools used in the exercise can trigger injuries. In the event of a possible injury, even if the injury is mild, medical attention may be required. First, the condition of the wound is reviewed. Pulse, respiration and skin color change are monitored. The area where the pain or wound occurs is examined and it is determined whether there is a fracture. If there is a fracture, the injured person should be hospitalized.


The first aid treatments that can be applied in possible minor injuries can be listed as follows:


1. Rest

It is the state of resting in case of injury or injury. The affected part is rested, thus allowing the body to gather strength. Rest is one of the first aid practices for sports injuries.

2. Ice


This method is one of the most commonly used methods in sports injuries. Cold application is made to the injured area. Ice application helps to relieve muscle tension by relieving pain and edema. Cold application is applied in 20-minute periods every 3 hours for the first 24 hours. During the application, there must be a material between the skin and the ice. Otherwise, serious conditions such as skin burns or allergies may occur. Usually, pieces of ice are wrapped in a towel moistened with cold water and applied to the skin. This application has two forms:


⦁ Cryokinetics (Cold application and movement): In this method, the person may be asked to move. In this way, pain is reduced and adhesions (adhesions) are prevented.


⦁ Cryostretch (Cold application and stretching): This method helps to reduce muscle spasms. Pain is reduced by increasing flexibility.


3. Compression (Compression)

Compression is the local application of pressure. In cases where there is bleeding or edema, it is applied to control them. If the injury is extensive, elastic bandages or compression pads may be used. A bandage can also be applied over the ice pack.

4. Elevation

With this method, which is applied to control the intense edema that occurs after the injury, the injured area is elevated above the heart level. It is done for 2-3 days with compression bandage and cold application after injuries. In the beginning, it is necessary to keep it up for 20 minutes every 2 hours.

5. Stabilization

The process of supporting the injured area is called "stabilization". injured area; It is stabilized with products such as bandages, tapes and splints. In this way, it is aimed to protect the tissues around the injured area.