
The most common injuries are muscle strains, ligament sprains and bruises. Taking the time to treat injuries early is important. Proper treatment will help to relieve immediate symptoms and speed up recovery.

ASSESSMENT	S.T.O.P.
	Stop	The play/activity or athlete to reduce the risk of further injury.
	Talk	Ask what happened, how did it happen, where does it hurt, are you hurt anywhere else?
	Observe	Compare injured site with uninjured site for swelling, distortions or discoloration.
	Prevent	Further injury, if any injury sign or symptoms are present, the athlete should not return to play
ACTION	R.I.C.E.R.
	Rest	Stop the activity and place the athlete in a comfortable position.
	Ice	Apply ice pack for 20 minutes every 2 hours for the next 48-72 hours.
	Compression	Apply a firm wide compression bandage over the injured part, as well as about and below. Check circulation. (combine ice with compression)
	Elevation	Elevate the injured limb higher than the hip or heart if practicable.
	Referral	Refer to a Athletic Trainer or Physician if injury shows no sign of improvement after 48 hours of if pain is severe.
CONTRAINDICATIONS	No H.A.R.M.
	No Heat	Hot baths, heat rubs, spas, hot water bottles etc...
	No Alcohol	Alcohol increases bleeding and swelling at the injured site and delays healing.
	No Running	Stop all vigorous activity.
	No Massage	For the first 48-72 hours. Massage causes and increase in bleeding and swelling.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
When Not to Play	When to See a Doctor	Recovery Guidelines	Return to play