Treatment of common injuries

describe treatment of simple fracture (6 steps)

medical attention as soon as possible

PRICE

immobilisation (brace/splint/sling)

anti-inflammatory drugs + pain relief

bone re-alignment surgery for severe fractures

physiotherapy

describe treatment of stress fractures (6 steps)

medical attention for diagnosis + advice

PRICE

rest for 2 weeks + avoid activity for 8 weeks

immobilisation might be needed (splint/brace to limit activity)

gentle return to exercise accompanied by posture + alignment training

strengthening exercises for surrounding connective tissue

describe treatment for dislocation (6 steps)

medical attention as soon as possible

immobilisation (brace/splint/sling, no attempt to reposition bones if not medical pro)

PRICE

anti-inflammatory drugs + pain relief

bone re-alignment surgery + pins for severe dislocations

physiotherapy to strengthen surrounding connective tissue + improve mobility

describe treatment of sprain (6 steps)

medical attention may be required

PRICE

support using strapping/brace

anti-inflammatory drugs + pain relief

functional rehabilitation, strengthening, mobility + balance exercises

reconstructive surgery for severe third degree sprains

describe menisci

tough discs of fibrocartilage at top of tibia that stabilise knee joint + act as shock absorbers

signs + symptoms of torn cartilage (3)

pain

swelling

popping sensation

causes of torn cartilage

sudden twist when weight-bearing or sudden impact/fall

treatment of torn cartilage (7 steps)

medical attention

PRICE

support using strapping/brace

anti-inflammatory drugs + pain relief

physiotherapy to strengthen surrounding connective tissue + restore RoM

hydrotherapy to maintain fitness without weight-bearing

arthroscopy surgery in persistent cases to re-shape + re-surface torn cartilage

describe exercise-induced muscle damage

microscopic injury to muscle fibres

signs + symptoms of exercise-induced muscle soreness (5)

pain

tenderness

swelling

stiffness

decreased RoM

how is exercise-induced muscle damage caused

excessive eccentric exercise

describe treatment of exercise-induced muscle damage (5 steps)

medical attention not required unless heavy swelling or dark urine (could indicate kidney damage)

cold therapy

massage therapy + stretching techniques

anti-inflammatory drugs + pain medication

symptoms should improve in 5 days