Did you know sports injuries cause around 36,000 Australians aged 15 and over every year to have a hospital stay? Consider how many other minor injuries occur that require fast administration of first aid to reduce symptom and injuries! 

FIRST AID FOR SPORTS INJURIES

PREVENTION

When an injury happens stop activity as soon as you can. Make sure that the injured athlete is in a safe environment; either that play has stopped or that the athlete has been taken off the sports ground prior to commencement of play.

REST

Rest is the first line of action for any sports injury. It prevents from hurting or damaging the joint or injured body part further. Avoid movement as much as possible to limit further injury. This refers resting immediately following the injury, but also for a period of time following it (to be consulted with a healthcare professional).

ICE

Cooling the tissue can help reduce pain, swelling and internal bleeding. Do not apply the cold pack directly to the skin. Wrap the cold pack in a towel and place it onto the injured area for approximately 15-20 minutes, not more. Then reapply it after a few hours.

COMPRESSION

Compress the injury by either wearing a stabilising brace, tape or bandage, this will prevent additional swelling. Ensure that the bandage is not too tight.

ELEVATION

To reduce bleeding, swelling and pain, elevate the injured limb In lower limb injuries - keep the ankle above the level of the hip. Upper limb injuries - elevate using a pillow or sling. Elevate the injured limb for as long as possible during the first 48 hours.

REFERRAL

Consult your doctor or physiotherapist for a precise diagnosis and to arrange for ongoing care and treatment. Advice given on this page is no substitute for a medical examination and diagnosis.

BUY A SPORTS FIRST AID KIT ONLINE

Why not proactively care for yourself and your club members with a dedicated Sports First Aid Kit from SWS Group. Contains essential items such as a large instant icepack, aluminium splint, rigid sports tapes and other hospital grade items which will treat a wide range of common sporting injuries occurred during the stresses of sporting and physical activities.