Sports accidents happen quickly, even when playing harmless ball games with children. It is important to treat any sports injury quickly to minimise swelling, bruising and impaired movement. This is how to provide immediate help for the most common injuries:

 

 

Muscle strain

 

Sudden and abrupt movements can lead to painful muscle strains. In the event of a pulled muscle, the so-called PECH rule applies as an immediate measure: Rest, apply ice, compression and elevation. It is even better to apply a cooling ointment under the compress. Elevate the affected part of the body to reduce blood flow. 

 

 

Abrasions and lacerations

 

Abrasions occur particularly on the knees and elbows and are superficial but very painful. If you take abrasions too lightly, they can become malignantly inflamed. 

As wounds usually occur after a fall, there is usually dirt in them. The wound should therefore be cleaned with a disinfectant. If there are splinters or stones in the skin, these should be removed by a doctor. For smaller wounds, apply a gel plaster, for larger wounds, apply a foam or hydrocolloid dressing. This keeps the wound moist so that the new skin grows back more quickly. Minor abrasions heal best in the air without a plaster. 

If the wound is half a centimetre deep or more, it is called a laceration. Lacerations must be stitched or glued professionally. Immediate measures include applying a protective bandage and seeking medical help as soon as possible. It is particularly important to get a tetanus booster vaccination for lacerations if there is no tetanus immunisation.

 

Sprain

 

In the case of a sprain, the joint capsule, ligaments or muscles are overstretched. The PECH rule (rest, apply ice, compression and elevation) also applies here. If the affected joint is still mobile, a fracture is unlikely, but should be checked later by a doctor. If a sprained joint occurs on the way home, a tight bandage should be applied. If necessary, tie the shoe more tightly to give the foot more support and use a stick for support.

 

Bruises

 

Swelling and bruising can occur after knocks, blows or heavy impact, which only become extremely painful after a few days. Cool the affected stele immediately and apply a pressure bandage to prevent swelling. 

 

 

First aid pack for travelling

 

Blister plasters. These are not only good for blisters caused by running, but also cover wounds long enough to reach a doctor. 

 

Compress. 

 

Elasticated bandage. 

 

Tape bandage. The tape is used to fix bandages or stabilise joints. 

 

Wound disinfectant.

 

Cooling gel or spray.

 

FußApply bandage correctly