(1) To accustom the injured tissues to being without support. This is achieved by using an elastoplast or crepe bandage support. Both types of support allow considerable freedom of movement, but provide the injured structures with a certain degree of stability. It is never advisable to take away all support from the injured tissues before they have recovered completely. If this is done the injured part tends to swell when used, owing to a leakage of the blood
fluid from the capillaries into the tissue spaces. The swelling gives rise to considerable pain and stiffness. The leakage of the blood fluid is due to a loss of tone of the capillary walls, which have become accustomed to the firm support of the original strapping.
(2) To disperse any residual effusion or thickenings. This is accomplished by the auto-massage pressure of the strapping or crepe bandage. When strapping is used the massage can be localized most effectively by strapping over a pad of adhesive felt. Heat treatments, remedial exercises and deep massage are also of great value.
(3) To strengthen the muscles of the injured part, and to restore full joint movement. The player practices all types of strengthening and mobilizing exercises, including weight-resisted exercises. Usually the supporting bandage or strapping is removed for the treatment session; it may be retained for the stronger exercises.
(4) When Sports training is started, please pay attentions to prepare the injured part for the normal stresses and strains of the game or event. This is done by the player resuming training and carrying out all the normal movements which are expected of him. The Injured part should be supported by a firm strapping, to prevent a recurrence of the injury.
For two to three months after the injury has recovered fully the player should have the injured part strapped firmly each time he takes part in a game or event. The time factor, of course, will depend on the severity of the original injury.
