We all like playing sports. There’s lots of studies about how sports are good for kids, and teach them sportsmanship from day one. However, sports can have a negative effect sometimes — kids who want to get back into a game no matter what may lie about the injuries that happen. Well-meaning adults may want to let them make their own choices without closely inspecting the injuries, and sometimes they get worse. Here are a few signs that instead of walking it off, you should go to a clinic.
- You are unable to bear weight: When walking it off is nearly impossible without pain, you may have a break, fracture, tear, or severe sprain on your leg. the same goes for your arm. If you can’t put weight on your arm, it’s time to get to a medical facility.
- The bone is out of place: If your bone is protruding through the skin, you are certainly in need of medical care. But the same goes for bones that seem out of place or crooked. This could be a indication of a break.
- You can’t stop the bleeding: When an injury results in a cut, you should try to control the bleeding. If you are unable to do so, you should get to a medical clinic for stitches or other care. This will also keep the wound from getting infected.
- You are experiencing numbness or tingling: These symptoms are signs of nerve damage, which a doctor should address as soon as possible. This is especially true when the symptoms remain for more than an hour or two.
- The pain is not bearable: Unable to handle the pain of your injury? It may be more serious than it is. A doctor can diagnose your injury and help you control the pain.
Hiding your pain may be considered strong in sports, but not when it’s pain that may affect how you play sports for the rest of your life. Even if you think you might be able to walk it off, that difference matters when it comes to your body. Don’t play games with yourself; get medical attention.