Sprains – technically the overstretching or tearing of ligaments which bind joints together – can be mild or severe, and sometimes difficult to distinguish from Fractures and Dislocations. A strain is something similar in a muscle; a few or many muscle fibres may be torn. The symptoms are similar – swelling, stiffness, and pain when the joint or muscle is used. If questioning of the casualty leads you to suspect a fracture, treat the injury as such.
Otherwise, support the injured pan in the most comfortable position. Reduce swelling by applying a cold compress – soak the compress in Arnica solution made by mixing 10 drops of mother tincture with 0.25 litre (1/2 pint) cold water. Light bandaging will also help to reduce swelling. Remove the shoe if the ankle is sprained (ankle sprains are caused by ‘going over’ on the outside of the ankle), but bandage the joint firmly to give support. Take the person to hospital if pain and swelling do not subside within 24 hours.
Recent Comments