Sprains
Cause: Sudden twisting injury to a joint.
Treatment: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (R.I.C.E.)
- Rest: Avoid using the joint, especially for weight-bearing activities; use crutches for ankle or knee sprains.
- Ice: Apply ice packs or cold compresses the first 24 to 48 hours after your injury. After 48 hours, switch to a hot pack (such as a small towel immersed in hot water and put in plastic bag and covered by another small towel).
- Compression: Wrap joint such as knee or ankle with elastic bandage; splint fingers to immobilize them.
- Elevation: Raise the swollen joint above the level of your heart to reduce swelling, especially at night.
Prevention: Do stretching exercises before exercising. Chronically weak muscles may need a muscle development program to avoid recurrent sprains. Ask your doctor for more information.
