Treating Minor Strains and Sprains

Symptoms

• Pain at the Joint or Muscle
• Swelling and Bruising
• Warmth or Redness of the Injured Area
• Difficulty Moving the Injured Area

Treatment

• Make sure the child stops activity right away
• Give the child ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and swelling.
  
• Think R.I.C.E. during the next 48 hours...

Rest:  Rest the injured area until it is less painful
Ice:   Wrap a bag of ice or cold compress around the injured area immediately.  Continue for no more than 20 minutes at a time, four to eight times a day.
Compression:   Support the injured area with a compression bandage for at least 48 hours.
Elevation:   Raise the injured area above heart level to decrease swelling.

Think Prevention
Always stretch appropriately and warm-up before and after starting exercises or participating in sports to avoid these types of injuries.  Also remember to always wear your protective equipment!





   
                                                                               Courtesy of Kids Health