Common Injuries: (during wildland firefighting, most injuries are a direct result of overuse)

Physical fitness training injuries video (wmv file)

• Shin Splints
• Tennis Elbow
• Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
• Lumbar Pain (lower back)
• Knee problems
• Foot problems
• Ankle Sprains/Strains
• Blisters
• Bone Bruises

Overuse Injury Common Causes:

• Not stretching – lack of warm up, cool down, and adequate stretching routine
• Exercising too much, too soon
• Improper exercise techniques
• Repetition of exercises (without adequate muscle recovery)
• Anatomical factors (ie: tilted pelvis and flat feet)
• Being overweight
• Improper shoe wear (should be specific for the activity)
• Training surfaces (i.e. running on concrete)
• Imbalance in muscle strength (between opposing muscles – i.e. abs/lower back)
• Machismo (in both men and women)

Emergency Medical Concerns: - * get immediate medical attention

• Difficulty breathing *
• Dizziness/lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath *
• Chest pain and/or discomfort *
• Sever headache
• Unusual fatigue
• Loss of consciousness *
• Allergic reaction *
• Rapid heart rate
• Nausea/vomiting
• Loss of muscle control *
• Slurred speech *
• Impaired vision *
• Disorientation
• Unexplained Euphoria
• Profuse bleeding *

First Aid Treatment for Common Injuries:

Basic first aid treatment is essential for minor injuries sustained from exercise. The following R.I.C.E. method should be used:

• R – rest the affected injured area immediately.
• I – apply ice immediately to the injured area to minimize pain and swelling.
• C – put a compression bandage on the injured area as to minimize swelling.
• E – elevate the injured area to minimize blood flow to the injured area thus minimizing swelling and pain.