Hockey Player Takes Puck To Face
If you're a fan of hockey, you know that there's no question that it's one of the most intense and physical sports out there. With all the speed, physicality, and high-stakes competition involved in hockey, it should come as no surprise that injuries are just a part of the game. One of the most common types of injuries that hockey players experience is getting hit in the face by the puck.
What Happens When a Puck Hits a Hockey Player's Face?
When a hockey player takes a puck to the face, it can be a really scary experience. Depending on how hard the puck was traveling when it hit the player, it can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries like broken bones or even damage to the player's eyesight.
Some common injuries that can occur when a hockey player takes a puck to the face include:
- Facial fractures
- Bone bruises
- Abrasions and cuts
- Concussions
- Damage to teeth or other facial structures
Depending on the severity of the injury, a player who takes a puck to the face may need to leave the game and seek medical attention right away. In some cases, the player may even need to undergo surgery or other medical procedures to fully recover from their injury.
Preventing Injuries from Pucks to the Face
While it's impossible to completely eliminate the risk of getting hit in the face by a puck when playing hockey, there are some steps that players can take to minimize their risk of injury. One of the most effective strategies for preventing injuries from pucks to the face is to wear a protective face shield or cage. These shields are typically made from a combination of plastic and metal, and they cover the entire front of the player's face, protecting them from stray pucks or sticks.
Wearing a face shield or cage may not be the most comfortable option, but it's definitely the safest. In fact, many youth and amateur leagues now require players to wear protective face shields or cages in order to play.
What to Do If You Get Hit in the Face with a Puck
If you or someone you know takes a puck to the face while playing hockey, it's important to act quickly in order to minimize the risk of further injury. Here are some steps to follow:
- Immediately leave the ice and seek medical attention. Even if the injury seems minor, it's important to get checked out by a medical professional just to be safe.
- If the injury is bleeding, apply pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or towel.
- If you're able to, take photos of the injury and any damaged equipment for insurance and documentation purposes.
- Contact your coach or league officials to report the injury and discuss any necessary next steps, like filing an incident report or filing a claim with your insurance company.
The Takeaway
Hockey is an exciting and fast-paced sport, but it's not without risks. Getting hit in the face with a puck is a common injury that many hockey players experience at some point in their careers. While it's impossible to completely eliminate the risk of injury, taking steps like wearing a protective face shield or cage can help to prevent serious injuries from occurring. If you do experience a puck to the face, take it seriously and seek medical attention right away.
