A sprain involves tearing the ligament fibers that keep the bones in the correct joint location. This trauma causes acute pain, swelling, bruising, and loss of mobility. Joint ligaments heal quickly, and sprains typically don't need surgery or other intense medical attention. However, it is important to treat them properly by following first aid procedures to recover faster.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Proceed with the First Cures
Step 1. Practice the RICE protocol that is recommended by first aid professionals
The term is an English acronym made up of words R.east (rest), THEce (ice), C.ompress (compress) e ANDlevate (raise). Follow all four of these guidelines to heal quickly, reduce initial pain and swelling.
Step 2. Let the affected joint rest and avoid using it unless absolutely necessary
Rest is essential for the recovery process and to avoid feeling unnecessary pain. If you need to use the injured limb (for example, to walk), do it carefully and use supportive devices.
- Use crutches to walk if the trauma is localized to the ankle or knee.
- Wear a shoulder strap for wrist and arm sprains.
- Wrap a splint around the sprained finger and support it with the adjacent finger.
- Don't completely avoid moving because of the injury; however, do not use the affected joint for at least 48 hours or until the pain subsides.
- If you play any sports, talk to your coach or doctor to find out when you can participate in competitions again.
Step 3. Apply ice to the lesion as quickly as possible
Put pressure on the joint using a cold pack or ice pack for up to three days, until the swelling is gone.
- Use any type of cold pack, such as ice cubes in a bag, a frozen cloth, a pack of frozen vegetables, or the reusable ice packs you can buy at the pharmacy.
- Apply cold therapy within 30 minutes of injury if possible.
- Do not place ice directly on the skin - use a cloth or towel to protect the skin.
- Reapply the ice or cold pack every 20-30 minutes throughout the day.
- At the end of the treatment, remove the ice to allow the skin to return to normal temperature before the next session.
- Leave the cold pack or ice on the wound long enough to feel a slight aching and numbness - 15-20 minutes - to help reduce the pain.
Step 4. Compress the joint with a bandage or bandage
In this way, you protect and give support to the limb.
- Wrap the joint fairly tightly, but without causing numbness or tingling in the limb.
- Use an ankle brace, as it may be more effective than a bandage or bandage.
- Use elastic bandages for support and flexibility.
- Alternatively, choose kinesiology tape.
- If you are unsure about the type of bandage or its use, ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Step 5. Lift the joint beyond the level of the heart if possible
This way, you reduce or prevent swelling. Try to hold this position for 2-3 hours every day.
- Sit or lie down by lifting your injured knee or ankle with a pillow.
- Use a shoulder strap to keep your wrist or arm above heart level.
- When you sleep, lift your injured arm or leg with a pillow or two if you can.
- If you cannot bring the limb beyond the level of the heart, make sure that it is at least at the same height as it.
- Pay attention to any tingling or numbness sensations as you raise your limb. if discomfort persists, call your doctor.
Step 6. Treat the injury with over-the-counter pain relievers
These medications help manage the pain and inflammation related to the sprain. However, do not take aspirin because it promotes bleeding, causes more complications, and worsens the condition of the hematoma. Choose NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Brufen) or naproxen (Aleve), which are recommended in cases of sprain for their anti-inflammatory properties. You can also take acetaminophen (Tachipirina) to manage pain.
- Ask your pharmacist or doctor to recommend the most effective product and dosage for you.
- If you are taking other prescription medicines, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking these pain relievers.
- Follow the instructions on the leaflet to know the dosage.
- Be aware of the potential side effects of over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Combine the intake of painkillers with the RICE protocol.
Step 7. Manage pain with homeopathic treatments
Although these therapies are not scientifically proven for pain, many people find them helpful.
- Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Mix two tablespoons with one of lime juice and a little water to create a paste to apply to the site of the sprain. Wrap everything with a bandage and let it act for several hours.
- Get Epsom salts at the drugstore. Pour a cup into a tub or bucket of hot water and wait for them to dissolve completely. Soak the affected joint for 30 minutes, several times a day.
- Smear a balm or arnica cream (available from pharmacies) on the wound to reduce inflammation, swelling and promote blood circulation. After application, wrap the area with a bandage.
Step 8. Avoid those activities that can make the situation worse
It is important to be especially careful in the first 72 hours after the accident.
- Avoid very hot water. Do not take hot baths, do not use the whirlpool, do not enter the sauna and do not apply hot compresses.
- Do not drink alcohol as it increases swelling, bleeding and slows the healing process.
- Take a break from strenuous activities such as running, cycling or similar sports.
- Save the massages for the terminal healing phase, as they may promote swelling and bleeding.
Part 2 of 2: Seeking Medical Help
Step 1. Go to the emergency room if the injury does not improve within 72 hours or if you have symptoms of a fracture
Any injury more serious than a simple sprain must be evaluated by a doctor.
- Call an ambulance if you can't put your weight on the injured limb, as it could be a sign of a fracture or severe sprain.
- Don't try to take the pain and ignore what happened, it's not worth it if the injury is more serious than you think.
- Do not attempt to self-diagnose the injury.
- Go to the emergency room to avoid prolonging the pain and / or worsening the situation with further damage.
Step 2. Look for symptoms of a bone fracture
There are several things that indicate a broken bone and the victim or caregiver should evaluate them. If you are showing any of the symptoms described below, you should go to the emergency room.
- See if you can't move the injured limb or joint.
- See if you experience tactile numbness, tingling, or if the area is extremely swollen;
- Look for the presence of injuries associated with the injury;
- Try to remember if you heard a snap during the accident;
- See if the joint or limb is deformed;
- Pay attention if you feel a particular bone sore to the touch (sore spot) or if the area has severe bruising.
Step 3. Monitor the wound for signs of infection
It is important to intervene at every sign of infection, to prevent the problem from spreading and aggravating the situation.
- Look for any cuts or skin abrasions around the site of the sprain that could allow bacteria access.
- Be careful if you have a fever during the first hours or days after the accident.
- Check the limb or joint for redness or red streaks extending from the injured area.
- Touch the limb to see if it is hot or if the swelling has worsened, both of which are typical signs of infection.
