|
Sprain or
Fracture
- Elevate the injured part to lessen swelling, may use pillows or chair
cushions.
- Ice packs - during the first 48 hours. Place ice in plastic/rubber bag
and cover with cloth.
- Elastic bandage - rewrap if loose or too tight.
- Crutches - use them to keep weight of injured part, gradually increase
weight off the bearing and resume activities as the pain and swelling disappear.
- If you have a cast, keep it dry at all times.
- Wait 48 hours for the cast to become strong before you allow pressure or
weight on any part of the cast.
- Wiggle toes or fingers to prevent swelling on the cast. This should be
done often if it does not cause pain.
- If the part swells anyway or gets cold, blue or numb, or if the pain
increases, have it checked by a physician.
|
