Heat Stroke, Concussions, Sprains: Are Your Summer Athletes Protected?
When athletes hit the field, rink, or court, they bring their passion, hustle, and heart. And while we love seeing that competitive spirit, it’s important to remember: injuries can happen — and when they do, having the right help on-site makes all the difference.
At Next Play Sport Therapy, we specialize in providing emergency medical and athletic therapy services for sports teams and events all across the Okanagan. We've seen it all — from twisted ankles to more serious emergencies — and we know that quick, professional care can change everything.
Here’s a look at three of the most common issues we deal with on the sidelines — and why your players deserve better than just a basic first aid kit.
1. Heat Stroke: It Happens Faster Than You Think
When the weather heats up, so does the risk for heat illnesses. And trust us, heat stroke can sneak up on athletes way faster than you might expect. Whether it’s a full-day soccer tournament or a summer football camp, athletes can go from feeling “a little off” to dangerously ill in no time.
Watch out for signs like:
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Confusion or strange behavior
Nausea or vomiting
Hot, dry skin (even if they stop sweating)
The tough part? A lot of early symptoms can be brushed off as normal game-day fatigue. But left untreated, heat stroke can cause serious — even permanent — damage to the brain, heart, and kidneys.
This is where professional coverage matters.
At Next Play Sport Therapy, we’re trained to spot the early warning signs and take fast action. We’re ready with cooling equipment, emergency protocols, and the know-how to keep players safe until EMS arrives (if needed).
In these situations, every second counts. Don’t leave it to chance.
2. Concussions: It’s Not "Just a Bump"
Concussions are tricky. Sometimes there’s a big hit, sometimes it’s just an awkward fall — and sometimes there are no immediate symptoms at all. But even a mild concussion needs serious attention.
Things we look for include:
Headaches, dizziness, or confusion
Nausea or vomiting
Blurred vision or trouble focusing
Mood changes or acting “off”
The truth is, you can't always tell just by looking. And letting an athlete continue to play with a concussion — even one that seems minor — can put them at serious risk for long-term issues or even life-threatening complications.
Our approach?
Pull them from play right away
Do a proper sideline assessment
Guide them through a safe, step-by-step return to sport
Keep communication open with coaches, parents, and medical teams
No guessing. No gambling. Just smart, athlete-first decisions.
3. Sprains and Fractures: More Than Just “Walk It Off”
Sprains, strains, and fractures are some of the most common injuries we see — especially in fast-moving sports. But here’s the thing: not all injuries are obvious.
Signs an injury might be more serious include:
Major swelling or bruising
Trouble putting weight on it
Deformity or “weird” bending at a joint
Pain that doesn’t ease up with rest
Without the right treatment, even a small sprain can lead to bigger problems like instability, chronic pain, or longer recovery times.
That’s why we’re there.
We can assess injuries on the spot, stabilize them properly with taping, bracing, or splints, and make sure players get the right follow-up care — whether that’s imaging, physio, or seeing a sports medicine doctor.
The goal? Handle it right away, handle it properly. No delays. No guesswork.
The Big Picture
Sports are unpredictable. That’s part of what makes them amazing — but it’s also why being prepared is non-negotiable.
At Next Play Sport Therapy, we make sure your athletes aren’t just treated — they’re protected. Whether it’s heat stroke, a concussion, a sprain, or something unexpected, our job is to be ready for whatever the game throws our way.
Because at the end of the day, every athlete deserves a team that’s got their back — not just when they're winning, but when it matters most.