How to provide emergency treatment for sports injuries
Nov 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Simply observe whether there is any deformity or abnormal movement at the injured site, and check for tenderness or crepitus upon touch. Also pay attention to sensation and blood circulation in the extremities. Make a preliminary assessment of the injury severity; if fracture, dislocation, or severe ligament damage is suspected, call emergency services immediately and wait for professional medical help. Perform proper warm-up exercises before daily physical activities, use appropriate protection during exercise, and take measures to reduce the likelihood of injuries.
Emergency management of sports injuries generally includes stopping exercise and immobilizing the affected area, applying local cold compression to reduce temperature, compressing with bandages to control bleeding, elevating the injured limb to reduce swelling, and assessing the injury. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Stop exercise and immobilize: Immediately cease physical activity after an injury occurs, keeping the injured area stable to prevent further movement that could worsen the damage. Use splints, sticks, or similar items to immobilize the limb, reducing stress on the injured area and preventing conditions such as fractures or ligament sprains from deteriorating.
2. Local cold compression: Within 48 hours after injury, apply ice packs or cold towels to the affected area for 15–20 minutes at a time, repeating every 1–2 hours. Cold therapy constricts blood vessels, reduces local bleeding and swelling, and helps relieve pain. Avoid direct contact between ice and skin to prevent frostbite.
3. Compression bandaging to stop bleeding: If the injury involves bleeding or significant swelling, gently wrap the area with an elastic bandage to apply moderate pressure. Compression helps control bleeding and limits fluid leakage into tissues, thereby reducing swelling. Ensure the bandage is not too tight to avoid impairing blood circulation.
4. Elevate the injured limb to reduce swelling: Raise the injured limb above heart level—for example, elevating a lower limb while sitting, or supporting an upper limb with a sling when standing. Elevation uses gravity to promote venous and lymphatic return, helping to reduce swelling and accelerate recovery.
5. Assess the injury: Examine the injured area for visible deformities or abnormal movements, check for tenderness or crepitus (grating sensation) upon touch, and observe circulation and sensation in the extremities. Make a preliminary evaluation of the severity. If fracture, dislocation, or severe ligament damage is suspected, call emergency services immediately for professional medical assistance.
Perform proper warm-up exercises before physical activity and take protective measures during exercise to reduce the likelihood of injury.
