SPRAINstretch and/or

tear of a ligament caused by a sudden pull

one or more ligaments can be injured at

the same time

STRAIN injury to either a

muscle or a tendon as a

result of suddenlly pulling

them too far

simple overstretch of

muscle or tendon, or result

of a partial or complete tear

fallsudden twistblow to the body

that forces a joint out of its normal position and stretches or tears the ligament supporting that joint

most common site: the ankle

frequently occur at the wrist

sprain to the thumb common in skiing and other sports

painswellingbruising

loss of functional abilitysometimes a pop or tear when the injury happens

twisting or pulling a muscle

or tendon

acute or chronic —› recent

trauma or result of overuse

two common sites: the back and the hamstring muscle

hand and forearm, elbow

typical—›pain, limited motion, muscle spasms, possibly muscle weakness

localized swelling, cramping, or inflammation and, with a minor or moderate strain, usually some loss of muscle function

RICE Therapy

Rest

Ice

Compression

Elevation

RestStop using injured part.Use splint for injuries of the arm, elbow, wrist, or hand

Keep damp or dry cloth between skin and ice pack

Do not apply ice for longer than 15 to 20 minutes at a time

Use elasticized bandage, compression sleeve, or clothWrap injured part firmly

▪Do not impair blood supply▪Too tight compression may cause more swelling

Wrap over ice Loosen the bandage if it gets too tight

DislocationDisplacement of the joint/

boneFrequently accompanied by a tearing or stretching of ligaments, muscles or other soft tissue

Signs and symptoms

Deformity of joint or limb Limited or abnormal

movement Swelling and

discoloration Pain and tenderness Shortening or

lengthening of affected limb

A break or a crack in a bone is called a

fracture.

Many types of fractures are difficult to determine.

If a fracture is suspected, it’s wise to get it checked out

All fractures are one of two types

1) Closed – skin over fracture is not broken

2) Open/Compound – where the skin over the fracture is broken. The bone may be visible.

FIRST AID CARE Basically the same as first aid for fractures

IMMOBILIZE the affected part in the position in which it is found by using splints and/or slings

Avoid any movement of part because movement can lead to additional injury to nerves, blood vessels and other tissues in the area

Obtain medical help immediately

Stop the activity.

Survey the injured area.

First Aid if qualified.

Get help if not.

Determine if additional medical attention is necessary.

SplintsDevices that can be used to

immobilize injured parts when fractures, dislocations and other similar injuries are present or suspected

Many commercial splints are available Inflatable or air splints Padded boards Traction splints (used for fractured femur)