# Sprain and strain 


It can be difficult to tell whether an injury is a fracture, dislocation, sprain or strain. If in doubt, always treat as a fracture. 
Signs and symptoms Sprain 
- 
intense pain 

- 
restricted movement of the injured joint 

- 
rapid development of swelling and bruising 


Strain 
- 
sharp, sudden pain in the region of the injury 

- 
usually loss of power 

- 
muscle tenderness 





What to do 
1 Follow DRSABCD. 2 Follow RICE: 
- 
Rest – rest the patient and the injured part 

- 
Ice – apply an ice pack or cold pack for 15 minutes every 2 hours for 24 hours, then for 15 minutes every 4 hours for 24 hours 

- 
Compression – apply a compression bandage firmly to extend well beyond the injury 



- 
Elevation – elevate the injured part. 3 Avoid HARM: 

- 
Heat 

- 
Alcohol 

- 
Running or other exercise of the injured area 



- 
Massage. 4 Seek medical aid.