How to Treat Minor Sports Injuries

There are some sports injuries that are minor and do not need medical attention. Strains, sprains, pulled muscles, bruises, torn ligaments and minor wounds can all be treated at home with the use of first aid and a few simple instructions.

• Clean cuts as soon as possible. Cleanse the affected area with warm water and apply an antibacterial spray. Once the spray has dried, apply triple antibiotic ointment to a sterile gauze pad and cover the area. Check the area twice daily for signs and symptoms of infection, which may include warmth, redness or pus discharge. If any of these symptoms are noted, seek professional medical treatment.


• Stretch the area out. This is especially true of strains and pulled muscles. For example, for a strained back, slow back stretches should be done while lying on the stomach. Doing this for several times throughout the day will help the pain subside. It should be noted that strains and pulled muscles can take up to 2 weeks to heal. 


• Apply ice if needed. Applying ice to most sports injuries will help reduce any bleeding and swelling. All ice packs should be covered in a towel to avoid frost bite.


• Elevate the area. If possible, raise the area to heart level or higher. This causes the blood flow to leave the affected area and reduce the swelling.


• Strengthen weak muscles. For example, for an injury such as tennis elbow, do wrist curls with 2-5 pound dumbbells to strengthen the wrist and the forearm.


• Rest the area. If the leg is injured, use crutches to keep weight and pressure off the leg until it heals.


• Apply heat to the area. The heat can be in the form of a hot towel or heating pad. This will help reduce pain and increase circulation to the affected area.