Sports Injury

What is classed as a ‘sports injury’?

The most common examples would be things like sprained ankles, bad bruising, pulled muscles, tennis elbow and so on. We’re not talking about fractures or wounds.

If you get injured, what is best for a quick recovery ?

There are two things you need to know about: first aid to limit the damage, and then treatments to speed recovery.

What first aid is appropriate?

To remember first aid treatment - think of RICE. RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate.

‘Rest’ means stop playing or exercising if you get injured. Take a genuine break from strenuous activity so that the injured part gets a chance to heal. It is not sensible to exercise ‘through’ an injury.
‘Ice’ reminds you to cool the injured part to reduce swelling and limit the amount of damage. A bag of frozen peas is good - and freezing sprays work well. Do this up to 2 or 3 days after the injury, every few hours throughout that time.
‘Compression’ In other words apply a bandage - like a crepe bandage - to limit swelling. It will also support the injured area - if that’s necessary. Tubular bandages are easy to use and you can get them from the chemist. Can be purchased from Pharmacy2U, Click here to view.
‘Elevate’ - If you can keep the injured part raised you help drain off the fluid that causes swelling. So if you’ve got a sprained ankle, for example, it is best if you keep you foot up on a stool or cushion.

Is it worth taking a painkiller?

Assuming the injury isn’t bad enough to go to the doctor, then you can consider painkillers. Ibuprofen, the active ingredient in Nurofen, is often recommended by physiotherapists and sports doctors. It not only reduces pain but also helps to combat swelling. Do make sure you read the instructions on the painkiller pack - and follow them carefully.

How should I look after myself while

I am recovering?

And presumably you should start exercise fairly gently?

Of course. If you’ve been off for a long while, you must allow plenty of time to build yourself up again.

And if you want help in this area?

You could consider a physiotherapist or an osteopath. Ask your doctor to give you the name of a qualified practitioner near to where you live.

When would you go to your doctor for a sports injury?

For any serious injury or for one that seems out of the ordinary. For example if the pain seems greater than you’d expect, or if a muscle or joint is very swollen or if movement seems very restricted. If in doubt, seek medical advice.

What else should I know about taking painkillers?

Always read the label carefully, to ensure the product is suitable for your use.
Don’t take more than the recommended dose.
Remember that many medicines, especially cold and flu remedies, contain pain relieving ingredients. So when using more than one type of product you should monitor your intake carefully.
You should not use ibuprofenNurofen if you have ever had a stomach ulcer, or are allergic to itbuprofen or to aspirin. If you are allergic to or taking any other painkiller, pregnant, or suffer from asthma speak to your doctor before taking ibuprofen.
If in doubt about a product’s suitability for you, ask the pharmacist for advice.

Nurofen contains Ibuprofen. Always read the label.