Despite daily training and taking the steps to maintain good physical fitness, athletes are still susceptible to sports injuries. Whether you experience a pulled muscle, torn ligament, or bone fracture, knowing what to do in the aftermath and getting the right medical supplies will ensure a speedy and full recovery. Here are a few guidelines for handling a sports injury.

Do:

Try to identify the type of pain you're experiencing.

From tingling and throbbing to numbness and piercing, the physical sensations associated with a sports injury will vary. Knowing what you're feeling will help ensure the proper emergency treatment is performed. 

For example, a bone fracture may produce a sharp, shooting pain, while nerve damage is generally associated with numbness. Don't ignore any unusual or lingering sensations. Instead, write them down so that you can address them with a doctor.

Listen to your doctor's follow-up care plan.

If your sports injury requires physical therapy and follow-up appointments, don't ignore these after-care treatments. Even if the pain is no longer severe, neglecting to stick to a prescribed recovery plan can lead to reinjury. 

Follow your doctor's instructions and let them know about your healing progress. Keeping in touch will also help the physician, physical therapist, or other specialist determine if any adjustments are needed. 

Don't:

Keep practicing or playing.

For some athletes, powering through while injured is the only option, especially during a competitive game. However, doing so will only make the injury worse. 

Stop practicing or playing immediately to address the ailment. Depending on the severity of the pain, take the necessary treatment steps, such as seeking professional assistance, applying ice, and elevating the affected area.

Stretch strained or torn muscles. 

Stretching can make the sports injury worse. Muscles and ligaments may experience further damage, which can make the ailment more painful. For strains and pulls, it's generally recommended to rest, elevate the injured area, apply ice to reduce swelling, and use some type of compression. 

If the pain is unbearable, you can take over-the-counter medicine designed for physical relief. As with any lingering injury, seek professional treatment immediately. Braces, supports, and other medical supplies may be prescribed to help with recovery. 

After a sports injury, turn to Bernens Medical & Pharmacy in Cincinnati, OH, for a speedy recovery. For more than 50 years, this business has been the region's go-to source for medical supplies designed for athletes. These include braces, wrist and ankle supports, and other sports accessories. You can count on the experienced and knowledgeable staff to pair you with the prescribed item and a customized fitting. Stop by today, or call (513) 471-7575 with your questions. More information on their equipment and supplies is available online.