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(a) (i) Outline how the indicators of readiness to return to play are used following an ankle injury - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 30 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 30
(a) (i) Outline how the indicators of readiness to return to play are used following an ankle injury. (ii) Discuss the ethical issues to consider before an athlete ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:(a) (i) Outline how the indicators of readiness to return to play are used following an ankle injury - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 30 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline how the indicators of readiness to return to play are used following an ankle injury.
Answer
Athletes who have sustained an ankle injury must meet specific standards to ensure they are ready to return to play. These indicators typically involve evaluating the athlete's pain level, range of motion, and overall functionality of the ankle.
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Pain Assessment: The athlete should report minimal to no pain during physical activity. This step is crucial, as pain can indicate inadequate healing.
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Functional Testing: The ability to perform functional tasks, such as hopping, running, and lateral movements, should be evaluated. Successful completion without pain suggests readiness.
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Range of Motion (ROM): The athlete should exhibit a full range of motion in the ankle compared to the uninjured side, ensuring the joint can perform necessary movements during play.
Step 2
Discuss the ethical issues to consider before an athlete returns to play following an injury.
Answer
Several ethical considerations must be taken into account when deciding whether an athlete is ready to return to play after an injury:
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Pressure to Participate: Athletes may feel pressure from coaches, teammates, or sponsors to return prematurely. Understanding this pressure is essential to protect the athlete's health and well-being.
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Informed Consent: Athletes must be fully informed of the risks associated with returning too soon. This includes potential for re-injury and long-term implications for their health.
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Use of Painkillers: The decision to use painkillers to manage discomfort poses ethical concerns. While they might allow an athlete to participate, they can mask underlying issues and lead to further injuries.
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Fair Competition: Returning an athlete who is not fully fit can compromise the integrity of the sport. Ensuring a level playing field is crucial for fair competition.
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Long-Term Health: Prioritizing the athlete's long-term health over short-term performance benefits is an ethical responsibility of the sports community.
Step 3
To what extent can sports policies and the sports environment promote safe participation for athletes?
Answer
Sports policies and the sports environment play a significant role in ensuring safe participation for athletes through various mechanisms:
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Regulation of Safety Standards: Effective sports policies establish safety protocols, such as mandatory protective equipment, to reduce the risk of injuries.
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Education and Training: Policies should promote education on injury prevention and proper training techniques for both athletes and coaches, fostering a culture of safety.
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Monitoring and Enforcement: Rules regarding the monitoring of athletes’ health and performance must be enforced to ensure compliance and protect athletes from undue risks.
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Access to Medical Support: The sports environment should include access to medical professionals who can provide immediate care and rehabilitation. This access ensures that athletes receive timely treatment and guidance.
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Encouragement of Safe Practices: Policies that advocate for rest and recovery, as well as a gradual return to play after injury, facilitate a safer sports environment.
In conclusion, the extent to which sports policies and environments foster safe participation relies heavily on their implementation and adherence.