Sprains

Disease	Injury	Nutrition	Poison

Special Topic	Surgery	Symptoms	Test

Early treatment of injury

Sprains

Definition:

An injury to the ligaments around a joint.

Alternative Names:

Joint sprain

Considerations:

If the pain and swelling have decreased 48 hours after a sprain, move the affected joint in all directions. However, keep pressure off the injured area until the pain subsides (usually 7 to 10 days for mild sprains and 3 to 5 weeks for severe sprains).

Causes:

Trauma directly to the joint causing the joint to move into a position in which it was not designed to move.

Symptoms:

joint pain or muscle pain
swelling
discoloration of the skin, especially bruising
impaired joint function

First Aid:

1. Restrict the movement of the affected area. Use a splint if necessary (see how to make a splint).

2. Avoid activities that cause pain or swelling. Rest.

3. Apply cold compresses immediately (this will help reduce swelling). Avoid using ice directly on the skin.

4. Bandage the affected area firmly, but not tightly. ACE bandages are good for this.

5. Raise the swollen arm or leg joint above the level of the heart -- especially at night while sleeping.

6. Think RICE for sprains (R = Rest, I = Ice, C = Compression and immobilization, E = Elevate the area).

Do Not:

DO NOT give the victim anything by mouth if a severe injury is suspected.
DO NOT ignore pain that persists. Rest any body part that is in pain.

Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if:

A broken bone is suspected, or if there has been a serious injury or persistent pain.
There is an audible popping sound and immediate difficulty in using the joint.

Prevention:

Wear proper foot gear.
Avoid high heeled shoes.
Practice moderation in physical activities.

Review Date: 5/23/2001
Reviewed By: Benjamin D. Roye, M.D., M.P.H., Department of Orthopaedics, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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