Altru Orthopedics & Sports Medicine provides athletic training for school events and community sporting events in Grand Forks and surrounding regional communities.
Altru's athletic trainers are medical experts in preventing, recognizing and rehabilitating injuries that result from physical activity. They work with the athlete, family, school and coaching staff to return the athlete to regular play and normal life activities.
Altru's athletic trainers also specialize in concussion management and ImPACT testing.
For more information, please call 701.732.7700.
Sports Injury Care and Prevention
R.I.C.E. = REST - ICE - COMPRESSION - ELEVATION
R= Rest
Resting an injured area is necessary to allow the body time to get the effects of the trauma under control and to avoid additional stress and damage to the injured tissue. The period of rest required will vary depending on the severity of the injury (e.g. days to weeks). People who do not rest an acute (sudden or traumatic) injury can prolong the inflammation period and increase the healing time required, thereby delaying the recovery.
I = Ice
Ice applied promptly to an injury can slow or minimize some of the inflammation. The cold causes a closing of the arterioles in the tissue, which reduces bleeding. The local tissue metabolism slows reducing its need for oxygen and nutrients, and the nerve imposes are slowed considerably to reduce the pain that's felt, providing a numbing effect. *Examples of ice treatment include using an ice bag or ice bucket for 15-20 minutes or ice massage for 7-10 minutes. Heat should only be applied after you are sure that the bleeding and swelling has stopped completely. Otherwise, an individual's recovery time will be delayed.
C = Compression
Compression is the application of an ace bandage or similar item around the injured area. This helps control swelling and provides mild support. Note: Any wrap should be applied carefully. Too tight a bandage could constrict or interrupt vital circulation to the area.
E = Evaluation
This involves raising the injured area above the level of the heart as much as possible. This position promotes the lessening or elimination of swelling through the use of gravity and lymph drainage system.
Prevention of sports injuries can be done through proper technique during play, proper equipment and training. The team at Altru Orthopedics & Sports Medicine can help to get you ready for your sport safely and effectively.
