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Prevention and Care of Injuries A first Aid Guide for the Youth Coach
The summary below is from the US Youth Soccer organization. The purpose, to raise coach awareness of conditions that can contribute to player injuries, the preventative measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of injury, and a guide to supporting players in the event of a medical emergency.
Emergency Action Plan
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Stay calm an reassure the player
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Do the primary survey: A, B, Cs. Airway, Breathing, Circulation
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If necessary send someone to call 911
Tip: Many parents form snack rosters i.e. each week a designated parent(s) provide half-time, or end of game snacks. Before doing this, please check for any player allergies on the team and make sure parents have suitable medications available to support the player in the event of an emergency.
Prevention of Injuries
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Project use of equipment (shin guards, no jewelry, uniforms designed for climate)
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Proper fitting shoes, proper type of shoe for surface
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Avoid scheduling training during the hottest periods of the day and when there is intense humidity
Common Injuries in Soccer
Cuts and abrasions
To reduce the risk of infection ALWAYS wear protective gloves and wash your hands before and after contact. Protect yourself and the player
Concussion
Usually due to a clash of heads. Possible dizziness, headache, disorientation, ringing in the ears and vomiting
Treatment : Remove from activity and seek medical care.
Fractures and Dislocations
If a body part does not have a normal appearance or function then suspect a fracture.
Treatment : Do not move the player, keep warm and make comfortable, call 911.
Heat Exhaustion
The players body is having trouble keeping itself cool. This condition can come on very suddenly, the players temperature is raised and they may feel sick or dizzy. The players is still sweating and the skin feels clammy
Treatment : Call 911, cool place, loosen clothing (ensure parent or guardian are present), rest and drink fluids
Heat Illness
Young children are still not as efficient as adults at dealing with heat or cold (1) Heat Cramps, (2) Heat Exhaustion, (3) Heat stroke.
Sprains
A frequent injury in soccer, with a knee and the ankle most often involved. A sprain is the stretching or tearing of the ligament beyond its normal limits.
Strains
A partial tear to the muscle or tendon. Commonly called a pull.
Nose Bleed
Place the player is a sitting position with the head forward
Apply pressure to just below the bridge of the nose. Use ice when necessary
If you suspect a head or neck injury do not try to control the bleeding. Instead stabilize the head and call 911.
