Treatment

The best immediate treatment for acute soft tissue injuries is PRICE protocol.

Most strains and sprains can be dealt with at home but the more severe ones will need to be seen by a doctor. To reduce pain and swelling, remember the acronym PRICE - Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.

P-Protocol
Protect the injured area e.g. use crutches, protective bracing if appropriate.

R-Rest
You should rest the injured area for 24-48 hours. Crutches may be needed to take the weight off an injured knee or ankle. Make sure that you know how to use the crutches properly. Use them on the uninjured side to relieve pressure from the injured side. Support a strained elbow or shoulder with a sling.

I-Ice
Apply an ice pack (e.g. pack of frozen peas or a bag filled with crushed ice wrapped in a towel) as soon as the injury occurs. Repeat up to three times a day. Remember to place a damp cloth between the skin and ice. Do not apply the ice pack for longer than 20 minutes.

C-Compression
Wrap the affected area in an elastic bandage tightly - but not so tight as to cause compromise of the blood supply to the affected area.

E-Elevation
To reduce swelling, elevate the affected area above the level of the heart.