First Aid Tips For Sprain

Accidents are unwelcome guests in our life. Musculoskeletal problems like sprains appear out of nowhere and cause severe pain as well as discomfort. While it is not possible to completely remove the risk of suffering from a sprain in your life, what you can do is to be prepared for it. 

Today, let’s look at the first line of treatment which can be applied on someone who is suffering from a sprain. Commonly known as RICE treatment, these simple tips will not only reduce the pain and swelling, they will also help speed up the recovery process, so that you will be back on your feet in no time!

First steps to treating a sprain

1. Get complete rest: If you end up with a sprain, the first thing you must do is to give complete rest to the affected joint. This means putting as little pressure as possible on that joint. This may require you to take some time off from your work. Trying to use an injured joint will only increase the pain and worsen the damage to joint structure. 

2. Apply ice: Put a few ice cubes in a sock and apply to the joint. You can also keep the aching area submerged in a tub of cold water. The reduced temperature constricts blood flow to the affected region, thus temporarily reducing pain sensation as well as swelling. Use the ice for just 15 to 20 minutes. Keep at least an hour-long gap between two ice sessions. You can safely apply ice between eight to ten times during the first two days.

3. Use a compression bandage: Wrap a bandage properly around the affected joint. This will provide some support to the joint structure and reduce the swelling. Make sure not to wrap too tightly as that will cut off the blood circulation. 

4. Elevate the joint: Try to keep the sprained joint at or above your heart level. You can do this easily: just keep the joint on a small pillow or cushion while you are in bed. This will certainly help in reducing the swelling.

5. Try a crutch: While complete rest is advisable, it is hardly practical. So, if you need to move around the house, use a crutch. Yes, it will look odd but this will prevent you from accidentally putting pressure or strain on the injured joint. If a crutch is not available, then you can always try a walking stick or cane.

When should you go to the hospital?

If you see any of the following signs, then you should go to your local hospital for treatment without further delay:  

• The affected region has become dark red or black 
• Red streaks have spread across the region (sign of infection)
• Pain is not reduced upon ice application
• The joint feels unstable or numb (indicating severe damage to joint structure)

By Dr. Shabtab Khalid
Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

Note: Through the synergistic combination of Classical Homoeopathy, Ayurvedic-Unani Formulations and Internationally Acclaimed Advanced Physiotherapy, Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution aims to eradicate joint pain, counter the process of degeneration and promote bone health. The protocol is at once scientific, effective as well as safe. To avail treatment at Zilaxo, call on 1800 419 6607 (Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 98304 26607.

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