chapter 17. Back and pelvis injuries
I Robertson and K Synnott
INTRODUCTION
Back injuries can occur frequently in sport. They can range from minor back strains to severe back injury.
Red Zone
• Fracture
• Bulging disc
• Fractured pelvis
Amber Zone
• Heavy blow to the back
• Back strain/spasm
Green zone
• Minor blow to the back
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| Fig. 17.1. |
| Anatomy of the lower back and pelvis. |
What should I check for?
Remember SPORTS and do not move the player immediately.
Speak to the player
• ‘Where is the pain?’
• ‘How severe is the pain?’
• ‘Can you move your legs?’
Problem identification
• Identify the extent of the injury by obtaining answers to the questions in the previous section
• For example the player may be complaining of back pain moving down into the back of the leg
Observe
• Do not move the player immediately
• Make sure the player’s airway is not compromised
• Look for major abnormalities
Rule out serious injury
• Rule out serious spinal injury
• Can the player move both legs?
• Have they full sensation?
• Are they incontinent of urine or faeces?
• Is there blood coming from the penis/vagina?
Touch for tenderness
• Touch the affected area lightly. Can they feel you touching them?
• Is it very sore to touch?
• Can you feel any abnormalities?
Skills assessment
• If the pain is severe and movement is greatly restricted the player should not continue
• If they have some stiffness but full movement they can play on. Assess at half time and full time
What should I do?
Talk to the player
• Reassure the player and explain what you are doing
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