While being active affords you many physical benefits, occasionally, it can lead to injury. Luckily, medical treatment and pain management techniques have advanced over the years, so athletes can enjoy a full or nearly full recovery—after some rest. Below are a few steps to take immediately after an injury to begin the healing process.

3 Steps to Take After a Sports Injury

1. Seek Medical Care If Needed

Immediately after the injury, you may need to seek medical care. If you hit your head, sustained a deep cut, or can’t put pressure on the affected area, go to the emergency room or urgent care. Immediate medical attention will not only help with pain management, but it will also begin the healing process quickly, which is essential for severe injuries that will not correct themselves on their own. Head trauma, suspected broken bones, and broken skin at risk for bacteria exposure require treatment to avoid complications.

2. Use the RICE Method

Once you make it home, begin pain management immediately. Most athletes and doctors recommend the RICE method: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Don’t use the injured area unless necessary, and apply ice to reduce swelling and pain. Wrap a towel around an ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables before applying it to avoid freezing the skin. Compression will also reduce swelling as it will discourage fluid from settling in the injured area. Wear compression socks or garments if they cover the injury, or wrap the area with an elastic bandage. Lastly, elevate the injury above the level of your heart to encourage fluid to flow back toward the center of your body.

3. Write Down Symptoms & Changes

As you rest, dedicate a notebook or online document to your injury records. Note any changes in swelling, pain levels, and weight-bearing capabilities over the next few days. Additionally, keep track of care, such as medication and cold therapy, that you use as pain management. If symptoms improve, continue following the treatment plan until the injury has healed; if it worsens, take these notes to a doctor or pain management clinic so they can understand the progression.

After a sports injury, seek long-term healing at O'Fallon Pain Relief Associates in St. Charles County, MO. In addition to immediate pain management, their clinic will use physical therapy to repair the damaged area and prevent a similar injury due to form or weakness. Their diagnostic tools allow them to find the root of your injury. To learn more about their clinic, visit their website, and call (636) 978-3000 to schedule an appointment.