Airsoft is a fun and relatively safe game that many people enjoy playing. However, it can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. Injuries can range from minor bruises to more serious wounds.
Airsoft injuries can range from bruises and welts to more serious injuries like concussions. It’s important to know how to treat these injuries so that you can get back out on the battlefield as soon as possible and also how to prevent them in the first place.
In this article, we are going to cover exactly that – how to treat airsoft-related injuries and what you can do to minimize the risk of getting injured in the first place. So let’s get started.
What Are the Most Common Airsoft Injuries?
While airsoft is generally considered a safe sport, getting shot by an airsoft BB usually doesn’t hurt that much or cause any serious damage.
Now that said, there are certain injuries that can occur during gameplay. These can be caused by anything from improper safety gear to a careless teammate. Some of the most common airsoft injuries include:
Welts
Welts are raised, and red marks on the skin that are caused by blunt force trauma. In airsoft, welts can be caused by BBs hitting the skin directly or by BBs ricocheting off other surfaces and hitting the skin. Welts can range in size and severity, from small red marks to large, painful bruises.
Bruises
Bruises are a common injury in airsoft, and can be caused by BBs or even by simply falling and hitting something hard. Bruises are caused by blood vessels rupturing and bleeding under the skin, and can range in size and severity. Bruises typically range in size and severity, with the most severe bruises causing swelling and tenderness.
Scratches
Scratches are shallow cuts on the skin that can be caused by getting shot by a BB or by running through thick vegetation. Scratches can range in size and severity, from shallow marks to deep wounds that require medical attention. While scratches are usually minor and will heal quickly, they can lead to infection if not treated properly.
Sprains or Twisted Ankles
Sprains and twisted ankles are common injuries in airsoft and can be caused by falls or accidental trips and stumbles during gameplay. A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn, while a twisted ankle occurs when the ankle is twisted in an unnatural position. Both sprains and twisted ankles can be painful and may require medical attention.
Eye Injuries
Eye injuries are the most common more “serious” type of injury that can occur in airsoft. These injuries can range from minor irritation or redness to more serious injuries such as corneal abrasions or even blindness. Eye injuries are usually caused by a player using improper or ill-fitting safety goggles.
How to Treat Airsoft Wounds, Bruises, and Other Injuries?
Eye Injuries
If you sustain an eye injury while playing airsoft, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, there are a few steps you can take to help manage the injury:
- Rinse your eye with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes
- Cover the eye with a clean, soft cloth and apply gentle pressure
- Keep your eye closed and possibly covered until you are able to see a doctor
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the injury site if necessary
It is important to note that these steps are meant for minor eye injuries only. If you sustain a more serious eye injury, such as a corneal abrasion or a detached retina, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Do not try to treat these injuries on your own.
Welts, Bruises, and Scratches
For minor welts, bruises, and scratches, there are a few steps you can take to help manage the injury such as:
- Clean the area: Use clean water and soap to gently clean the area around the injury. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the injury, as this can cause further irritation.
- Apply a cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the injury can help reduce swelling and pain. Use a clean cloth or towel soaked in cold water, and apply it to the injury for 15-20 minutes at a time.
- Elevate the area: If the injury is on a limb, such as an arm or a leg, try to keep it elevated above the level of your heart. This can help reduce swelling and pain.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication: If the injury is painful, you can take over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help manage the pain. Follow the instructions on the label for proper dosage.
- Apply a cream or ointment: If the injury is dry or itchy, you can apply a cream or ointment to help moisturize the skin and reduce irritation. Avoid using products that contain alcohol or other irritants, as these can further irritate the skin.
- Protect the area: If the injury is in a location that is prone to further injury, such as on a joint or a bony area, try to protect it with a bandage or wrap. This can help prevent further damage to the injury.
For scratches, it is also important to apply an antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection and promote healing. Follow the instructions on the label for proper application.
In most cases, welts, bruises, and scratches will heal on their own within a few days to a week. If the injury is severe, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, excessive swelling, or difficulty breathing, it is important to seek medical attention.
Sprains
If you suspect you have sprained or twisted your ankle while playing airsoft, you should see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis. In the meantime, there are a few steps you can take to help manage the injury:
- Rest: Rest the injured ankle and avoid putting any weight on it.
- Ice: Apply an ice pack to the injured area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day to reduce swelling and pain.
- Compress: Wrap your ankle loosely but firmly with an elastic bandage or brace to help provide support and keep the swelling down.
- Elevate: Keep the injured ankle elevated above the level of your heart to help reduce swelling and pain.
- Over-the-counter medications: If necessary, you can take over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help manage any pain.
Depending on the severity of the sprain, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to heal. If you experience any severe pain or sudden swelling, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
When to See a Doctor for Airsoft Injuries?
It is important to seek medical attention for any serious airsoft injuries, as well as for any injuries that do not improve or that are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, excessive swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Some examples of injuries that may require medical attention include:
- Eye injuries that result in vision loss or severe pain
- Welts, bruises, or scratches that are large or that are accompanied by other symptoms
- Sprains or twisted ankles that are severe or that do not improve after a few days of rest and treatment
- Tooth injuries that result in a tooth being knocked out or a tooth becoming loose
- Ear injuries that result in hearing loss, tinnitus, or other hearing problems
It is also a good idea to see a doctor if you have any doubts about the severity of an injury or if you are unsure how to properly treat an injury. A doctor will be able to assess the injury and provide appropriate treatment to help you recover as quickly as possible.
How to Prevent Injuries From Airsoft?
To minimize your risks of being injured while playing airsoft, you can follow these steps:
- Wear proper protective gear: It is important to wear proper protective gear at all times while playing airsoft. This typically includes eye protection, ear protection, gloves, and protective footwear. Make sure that all of your protective gear is in good condition and that it fits properly.
- Wear the right clothing for airsoft: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to help protect your skin from welts, bruises, and scratches. It is also important to wear clothing that is not too baggy as this can make it more difficult for you to move quickly and safely.
- Follow safety rules and guidelines: Make sure you understand and follow all safety rules and guidelines for airsoft. These may include rules about the use of eye protection, the use of safe areas, and the handling of airsoft guns.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings at all times while playing airsoft. Know where the other players are, and be mindful of any obstacles or hazards that may be present on the playing field.
- Use caution when handling airsoft guns: Always handle airsoft guns with caution. Do not point the gun at anyone, and make sure the safety is on when you are not using it.
- Use caution when navigating the playing field: Be careful when navigating the playing field, and watch your step to avoid falls or accidents. Wear appropriate footwear to help prevent sprains and twisted ankles.
Key Takeaways
- The most common airsoft injuries are welts, bruises, scratches, sprains or twisted ankles, and eye injuries.
- Minor airsoft wounds and injuries such as bruises, welts, and scratches can typically be treated with rest and over-the-counter medications.
- More serious airsoft injuries such as sprains, twisted ankles, and eye injuries should be seen by a medical professional for proper treatment.
- To reduce your risk of injury while playing airsoft, it is important to wear the appropriate protective gear and clothing, follow safety rules and guidelines, be aware of your surroundings, and use caution when handling airsoft guns and navigating the playing field.
All-in-all, it is important to take the necessary steps to reduce the risks of injury while playing airsoft and to seek medical attention if needed.
You should always consult a professional if you are not sure how to properly treat or manage an injury or if you have any doubts about its severity. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your airsoft experience is a safe and enjoyable one.
