102 Where There Is No Doctor 2011
STRAINS AND SPRAINS
(BRUISING OR TEARING IN A TWISTED JOINT)
Many times it is impossible to know whether a hand or foot is bruised, sprained, or
broken. It helps to have an X-ray taken.
But usually, breaks and sprains are treated more or less the same. Keep the joint
motionless. Wrap it with something that gives firm support. Use crutches to give a
sprained foot as much rest as possible. Serious sprains need at least 3 or 4 weeks to
heal. Broken bones take longer.
To relieve pain and swelling, keep the sprained part raised high. During the first
day or two, put ice wrapped in cloth or plastic, or cold, wet cloths over the swollen
joint for 20 to 30 minutes once every hour. This helps reduce swelling and pain. After
24 to 48 hours (when the swelling is no longer getting worse), soak the sprain in hot
water several times a day.
For the first day soak the sprained
joint in cold water.
After 1 or 2 days use hot soaks.
You can keep the twisted joint in the correct position for healing by using a
homemade cast (see p. 14) or an elastic
bandage.
Wrapping the foot and ankle with
an elastic bandage will also prevent or
reduce swelling. Start from the toes and
wrap upward, as shown here. Be careful
not to make the bandage too tight, and
remove it briefly every hour or two. Also
take aspirin or acetaminophen.
If the pain and swelling do not
start to go down after 48 hours, seek
medical help.
CAUTION: Never rub or massage a sprain or broken bone. It does no good and
can do more harm.
If the foot seems very loose or ‘floppy’ or if the person has trouble moving his toes,
look for medical help. Surgery may be needed.