Do you know what to do with a sprain or a strain? Basic first aid for these types of injuries is Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE).
You should not use (rest) the injured area for at least the firt hour or so, while you are cooling (ice) the extremity down as much as possible without freezing. You can use ice, cold packs, cold water, or wrap the area in wet cotton and let the evaporation process cool the area down. You will next need a elastic wrap for the compression, ace wrap works well. Wrap the area snugly, but do not wrap it so tight that you cut off the circulation, and wrap it upwards towards the heart. Example: hand to elbow, foot to knee. This helps reduce swelling. Also elevate the area above the heart as well as possible. After about 30 minutes of RICE, you may remove the wrap and cold and let the extremity warm up gradually over 10 to 15 minutes before considering using it. You may repeat this process as much as you like until swelling goes down. Don’t forget to drink lots of fluids, especially water and take some sort of anti-inflammatory if you do not have any type of allergies. Example: Ibuprofen, Motrin, Tylenol If the extremity does not get any better seek medical advice. You may have a serious injury.
