Welcare helps to play it safe at Sevens

Dubai: For the ninth year running, Welcare Hospital is providing their medical support to the players at the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby 7s.

It is estimated that about 1,300 players will require medical attention over the three-day event.

In 2006, over 500 players were treated for injuries, a figure slightly lower than previous years.

Of those treated, 263 were for hamstring muscle tears and various sprains.

Fifteen head injuries including concussions and eight shoulder dislocations which were relocated on the pitch, needed professional medical attention as well as many open wounds and muscle strains.

The medical team was also on the field to treat some serious knee ligament tears and small bone fractures, 6 of which were later operated on.

Dr George John, Specialist Sports Medicine Surgeon, leads the medical team.

"Our team has on field experience and will offer a range of critical sport's medicine services such as surgical care and fitness evaluation. The team will be on field at all times to deal with accidents and injuries, said John.