Department of Otolaryngology

Conditions We Treat

Facial Sports Injuries

What are Facial Sports Injuries?

Although playing sports is a fun form of exercise, at times playing various sports can lead to injury. That is why it is important to use the proper safety equipment and to play according to the rules of the game. In many sports, even with proper head gear, the head and face are particularly vulnerable to many types of injuries.

Facial sports injuries include any type of injury to the head and face, including bruises, cuts and scrapes, nasal and neck injuries.

For information on preventing injury in your favorite sport, read Playing It Safe

Types of Facial Sports Injuries

Facial Fractures

The face is made up of many bones, any of which can be broken or fractured in a sports-related accident. Common symptoms of facial fractures include:

• Swelling and/or bruising (i.e., a black eye)
• Pain or numbeness in the face
• Distorted vision
• Nosebleed
• Change in jaw alignment

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries include bruises, cuts and scrapes. Many soft tissue injuries are minor, and usually only require cleaning and protection in order to heal, but you should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Deep skin cuts
• Any loss of or changes in facial movement
• Persistent bleeding
• Distorted vision
• Problems breathing or swallowing
• Unconsciousness

Nasal Injuries

Injury to the nose is very common, and often results in a minor nosebleed. If bleeding persists, or if you suspect that the nose has been broken, you may need medical attention. Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing
• Persistent bleeding
• Deformity of the nose

Neck Injuries

Because the neck houses the top of the spinal cord, as well as the larynx, esophagus and several major blood vessels and nerves, all neck injuries should be checked by a physician.

Treatment of Facial Sports Injuries

First Aid

When someone is injured, the first actions taken can make the difference between a minor injury and a permanent one. When you see someone injured, take the following steps:

• Determine if the injured person is conscious, ask if they are okay and ask if they know who and where they are
  
  
• Make sure the person can see, hear and maintain balance. Any problems or other changes in behavior will require medical attention
  
  
• Look for any weakness or loss of movement in the forehead, eyelids, cheeks and mouth
  
  
• Look to see if the pupils are dilated or if they are the same size
  
  
• Watch for any areas that are swelling, and apply ice and elevate the head
  
  
• Watch for areas that are bleeding and apply pressure with a clean cloth
  
  
• If medical attention is required, call 911

Medical Attention

For some injuries, first aid will not be sufficient treatment, but there are minor medical procedures that can provide for optimum healing.

• Treatment of facial fractures will depend upon the location of the fracture. Treatment options include, but are not limited to, facial and dental surgery
  
  
• Treatment of soft tissue injuries can include stitches or plastic surgery
  
  
• A persistent nosebleed may require a physician to drain the hematoma (the collection of blood behind the mucus membrane)
  
  
• Neck injuries can be treated through mediction (such as muscle relaxers or anti-inflammatories), physical therapy, or surgery