What should I do if my child pulls a muscle during physical education class

Muscle strains in children during physical education classes can be treated through rest, cold compress, pressure bandaging, lifting the affected area, medication relief, rehabilitation training, and other methods. Muscle strains are usually caused by insufficient warm-up before exercise, irregular movements, excessive muscle fatigue, external impact, and old injuries that have not healed.

1. Rest and apply cold compress

Immediately stop exercising to avoid secondary injury. Within 48 hours, wrap an ice pack with a towel and apply cold compress to the affected area, with a 15 minute interval of 2 hours between each application. Cold compress can constrict blood vessels and reduce internal bleeding and swelling. Do not directly apply ice or heat to the skin. If the pain persists for more than 3 days or if bruising spreads, seek medical attention.

2. Pressure bandaging

Use an elastic bandage to apply uniform pressure to the injured area, and the bandage should be tight enough not to affect blood circulation. Pressurization can limit tissue fluid leakage and hematoma formation, and the bandage should be removed during nighttime sleep. Immediately release the bandage when accompanied by skin bruising or numbness sensation.

3. Raise the affected area

Elevate the injured limb above the level of the heart and use gravity to promote venous return. Lower limb strains can be raised with a pillow when lying flat, while upper limb strains can be suspended with a triangular bandage. The elevated position should be maintained for more than 6 hours, which can effectively reduce swelling and pain.

4. Medication relief

When the pain is significant, children can follow the doctor's advice to use ibuprofen suspension, acetaminophen granules, and other pediatric medications. Self administration of adult analgesics is prohibited. Diclofenac sodium gel can be used for external use, but it is forbidden to use it in the damaged skin. Do not use aspirin for more than 3 days, and children under 12 years old should use aspirin with caution.

5. Rehabilitation Training

After the swelling subsides, gradually perform static stretching and resistance exercises, such as ankle wraps, elastic band training, etc., and avoid vigorous running and jumping during the recovery period. Severe strains require physical therapy under the guidance of a doctor, and ultrasound and low-frequency electrical stimulation can promote muscle fiber repair. Parents should guide their children to warm up for at least 10 minutes before exercising, wear suitable sports shoes, and replenish water in a timely manner during exercise. During the recovery period, increase the intake of protein and vitamin C rich foods such as milk, eggs, and broccoli to promote muscle tissue repair. If there are deformities or abnormal sounds in the affected area, or if there is no improvement for two weeks, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly at the orthopedic department to rule out fractures or tendon ruptures. Low impact exercises such as swimming and yoga can be used in daily life to enhance muscle flexibility and reduce the probability of re injury.