Sports and other physical activities can help children stay healthy, but they also can result in injuries. Scrapes and sprains are a fact of life for most children, so it’s good to know what to do when they have a minor injury.

Scrapes and cuts
The most important step in treating a wound is stopping the blood flow, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Here’s how:

• Press a clean, soft cloth against the wound for several minutes.
• Raise the injured part to stop the bleeding.
• Clean the area with water. Use mild soap around the wound’s perimeter to clean debris off the surrounding skin.
• Place a small amount of antibiotic cream on the wound.
• Apply a clean bandage after the bleeding has stopped.
• Change the dressing periodically.

Strains and sprains
Muscle strains and sprains may be difficult to assess because the damage is on the inside. Generally, a strain is when the muscle has stretched too far and partially tears. It can appear bruised, and pain, soreness and swelling can develop several hours after the incident.

A sprain is more serious and may involve torn ligaments. The area usually swells immediately and may be accompanied by acute pain. Sprains can take weeks to heal and can feel like a broken bone.

For general treatment, first eliminate pressure from the injured part. Then follow the RICE rule:

• Rest the injured part.
• Apply ice several times a day to reduce swelling.
• Wear a bandage to compress the area to prevent swelling.
• Elevate the injured part above the heart to reduce soreness.

Relieving the pain
Pain relievers can help reduce inflammation. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are generally safe with few side effects when given in the correct dosage. Read the directions on the package, and do not exceed the dosage or give doses too close together. Be cautious when giving these medications in conjunction with others. Don’t give your child aspirin unless directed by your child’s healthcare provider. Aspirin may cause a serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.

More serious injuries
Call your child’s healthcare provider or seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• A wound doesn’t stop bleeding after several minutes of pressure.
• A cut has ragged edges or is especially long or deep, or the edges of the skin are far apart.
• A sprain or strain has not healed after five to seven days.
• Redness, bruising, pus, drainage or swelling has increased.
• The injured area feels numb.
• A popping sound occurs during the injury. This can indicate torn ligaments.
• An injured body part is oddly bent or misshapen.
• The child has any significant injury involving the head or lip.
• The child complains of increasing pain or breathing difficulty.

More information:
What to do about cuts and scrapes