A soft tissue injury is the damage of muscles, ligaments and/or tendons throughout the body. Common soft tissue injuries usually occur from a sprain, strain, overuse or a direct blow. Most areas affected are the ankle and knee but they can happen anywhere in the body.
A person with a soft tissue injury will have pain and swelling. Depending on how severe it is and where the injury is, it may affect activities.
Severe soft tissue injuries will cause your child to stop their activity. It is important to start moving the affected area early on. Evidence shows this is the best treatment to prevent further problems. If there is swelling you can use ice in the first 48hours after injury. Moving the joint will also get rid of swelling. Try and encourage gentle movements of the affected area.
If it is a leg injury you should try and encourage taking weight on it and walk normally.
With arm injuries, try and encourage normal use. It may take your child a few days to be able to do this but continue to encourage it.
If needed, your child may take medicine to decrease any pain and inflammation. Use according to the package directions or as instructed by your doctor/pharmacist.
Your child may need to take a break from sporting activities. This should only be for about 2 weeks until the pain and swelling have eased. More severe injuries may take as long as four to six weeks to heal. If your child is not getting better you should seek help from a healthcare professional/Physiotherapist.