Sprain - First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide

Overview

• Sprain is the stretch/tear of ligament connecting bones
• Occurs in both the upper & lower part of the body
• Most common sites - ankle/wrists/knee

Causes

• Trauma/accidents
• Lifting heavy objects
• Sporting injuries

Symptoms

• Pain
• Swelling
• Lumps other than swelling
• Bruising/redness at site of injury
• Numbness
• Inability to move the joint

Treatment

• Apply a cold compress to injured area for 20 min
• This may be done 4-8 times a day
• Use a plastic bag with crushed ice, wrapped in a towel
• Use compression bandages to reduce swelling
• Keep the injured leg elevated on a pillow
• Take anti inflammatory pills if necessary
• Take rest for the recommended period
• When pain/swelling is diminished, do recommended exercises

Consult a doctor

If the following occurs-

• Severe pain/numbness
• Inability to move the joint
• Inability to assess the severity of injury

Steps To Avoid

• Do not return to normal activities if not completely cured
• This could lead to the problem turning chronic

Prevention

• Avoid exercising/sporting when tired
• Eat a well balanced meal-for healthy muscles
• Avoid unhealthy weight gain
• Exercise daily-particularly stretching exercises
• Do warm-up before exercising
• Practice safety measures, like avoiding clutter
• Run on even surface
• Do not wear ill-fitting shoes