Injuries | Play Safe and Have Fun



Posted: Wednesday, January 27, 2010

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We've all experienced the pain of minor injuries like scraped knees and paper cuts - injuries that are sometimes unpredictable but most certainly painful. When it comes to more severe injuries, a little prevention can go a long way.

Some of the most common injuries people suffer from involve the limbs and extremities. Injuries to the feet, legs, knees, arms and back are among the most commonly reported injuries in the United States. Wearing appropriate foot wear can help prevent many injuries associated with the feet, legs and knees, likewise proper wrist and elbow protection can aid in the prevention of arm associated injuries. The most common injury however are back injuries. Often caused by improper lifting, back injuries account for many disability claims in the United States every year.

When we think of injuries, we quickly think about the pain associated with them - we all cringe at the site of someone getting hurt. Pain relief is a major consideration for people suffering from severe injuries and some types of pain relief work better for some patients than others. More common pains involving the muscles, tendons and ligaments are better treated with the R.I.C.E method (rest, ice, compression, elevation) while other injuries like cuts and bruises for example may respond better to pain relievers (prescription or over-the-counter).

When an injury leaves a patient with long term affects, sometimes sports medicine is the road to relief. The use of physical therapy, massage therapy and chiropractic care are all forms of what we consider sports medicine. These treatments are intended to gradually re-train the body to revert back to its pre-injury state and offer encouragement for sufferers who have developed some depression as the result of a substantial injury. A variety of braces and supports can also be used in sports medicine to aid in recovery, including knee braces, wrist supports etc.

Being safety conscious may very well lower your chances of being injured, but the reality is - most people who get injured never saw it coming. Having a first aid kit is a good idea if you or the people around you are injury prone. Be sure to stock it with simple supplies like Band-Aids, gauze and tape but don't forget items like slings and cold packs. Keeping your first aid kit well stocked and accessible will help if an emergency arises - also be sure you know how to use the items within it. Receiving training in first aid and CPR is also a good idea to help you prepare for the unexpected.

Sandra Browne is an expert on first aid. She has 4 sons and has dealt with her fair share of injuries over the years. In her spare time, she shares her knowledge with the readers of HealthSceneAilments.com.

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