How to treat a sports injury

How you treat an injury will depend on a number of factors and if you are unsure at any point, please seek help from your GP.

PRICE Therapy

For minor injuries such as sprains or strains, the below advice is normally effective for pain relief and recovery. PRICE therapy is suitable for initial treatment of injuries and can be used at home for two-three days after the initial injury. PRICE stands for Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.

 Protection

Protecting the area from further injury is extremely important. When we are injured we will not have our full range of movement which will likely make us a little more clumsy. Using a support and being extra careful will ensure that your injury does not get worse.

 Rest

Avoiding exercise and reducing your daily physical activity will help speed up your recovery. If you absolutely have to move, consider using an aid to make sure you don't put undue pressure on the injury. A walking stick may help for leg injuries and a sling may help for arm and shoulder injuries.

 Ice

Applying an ice pack to the injuired area for 15 - 20 minutes every 2 - 3 hours will help ease the pain by numbing the nerve endings and help reduce swelling in the area. We recommend using our ice packs with an Ice Pack Cover to prevent the pack touching your skin which can lead to irritation and ice burn. 

 Compression

Using an elaticated compression bandage on the injury helps to limit swelling and will ease pain. Compression bandages come in a variety of sizes, so make sure you use one that is the right size. Too small and the bandage could do more harm than good.

 Elevation

Keeping the injured body part elevated above the level of your heart will help reduce swelling and help speed up recovery.

Pain Relief

The NHS states that over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol can be used to help ease pain. It goes on to state that non-steriodal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) tablets or creams such as ibuprofen can also be used to help ease pain and reduce swelling.

For more information and advice please visit the NHS website.

Koolpak Ltd takes no responsibilty for the accurateness or completeness of this information. If in doubt, ALWAYS contact your GP or trusted medical professional for advice.