Hit In Face With Hockey Puck
Ice hockey is a popular sport in the US that involves a lot of physical contact and high-speed movement. The players wear protective gear, including helmets, to minimize the risk of injuries. However, accidents can still happen, and one of the most common injuries in this sport is a hit in the face with a hockey puck. In this article, we will discuss the causes, prevention, and treatment of this injury.
Causes
A hockey puck is a hard rubber disc that weighs around six ounces and measures three inches in diameter. It can travel at a speed of up to 100 miles per hour when hit with a stick. A hit in the face with a hockey puck can occur due to various reasons, such as:
- Errant shot from a player during practice or game
- Deflected puck from a stick or skate
- Puck hitting the boards and bouncing back at a high speed
- Puck hitting the face of a player who's not wearing protective gear or wearing inadequate gear
A hit in the face with a hockey puck can cause various facial injuries, such as broken bones, lacerations, and dental injuries. It can also lead to concussion, which is a mild traumatic brain injury that can cause symptoms like headache, dizziness, and confusion.
Prevention
Preventing a hit in the face with a hockey puck is crucial for the safety of the players. Here are some tips to prevent this injury:
- Wear proper protective gear, including a helmet with a full face shield, mouthguard, and neck guard
- Replace protective gear that's worn out or damaged
- Be alert and aware of the puck's location at all times
- Keep your stick on the ice when passing, shooting, or skating
- Develop good puck-handling skills to reduce the chances of errant shots or deflected pucks
Coaches can also take measures to prevent a hit in the face with a hockey puck, such as:
- Teach proper technique and safety rules to their players
- Enforce the use of proper protective gear
- Inspect the playing surface and boards regularly to ensure safety
- Provide adequate supervision during practices and games
Treatment
If you get hit in the face with a hockey puck, seek medical attention immediately. Even if the injury seems minor, it can still cause significant damage to your face or head, especially if you have a concussion. Here are some steps you can take while waiting for medical help:
- Apply pressure to any bleeding wounds with a clean cloth or towel
- Hold an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables against the injured area to reduce swelling and pain
- Avoid moving your head or neck and keep them immobilized until medical help arrives
- If you have a concussion, rest and avoid physical activity for a few days, and follow your doctor's instructions carefully
In some cases, you may need surgery to repair broken bones or other serious injuries. Your doctor will determine the best course of treatment based on the severity and type of your injury.
Conclusion
A hit in the face with a hockey puck can be a painful and potentially dangerous injury. However, it's preventable by wearing proper protective gear, being aware of the puck's location, and practicing good puck-handling skills. If you do get injured, seek medical attention immediately and follow your doctor's instructions for treatment and recovery.
