4 steps to first aid for sprains and dislocations

According to Dr. Nguyen Quoc Huy, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, first aid is very important for people with sprains and dislocations. Timely first aid helps reduce risks, does not aggravate injuries, and facilitates further treatment at medical facilities.

If the injury is a contusion, the tendons (which connect the muscles) are damaged. If the joint is stretched or sprained, the ligaments (which help connect the two ends of the bones) are damaged. In both cases, you should perform the following four first aid steps:

Rest

Limit movement to reduce pain, you can use crutches, canes or cloth splints if the injury is minor. In case of injury, normal movements are limited, the injured area should be completely rested by splinting across the two joints with anything long and strong.

Note: Do not try to manipulate, bend, or adjust the painful area to return it to its normal position or repeat movements, even if they are difficult, as this will cause pain and make the injury worse.

Ice pack

To reduce pain and swelling, use pain-relieving sprays and cold packs. You can put ice in a plastic bag and wrap it in a towel to prevent frostbite.

During the first 24 hours, apply ice about 3 times, each time for 20 to 30 minutes. In particular, do not apply hot oil or use heat during the first 24 hours because it can cause more swelling and bruising.

4 first aid steps for people with sprains and dislocations.

Compression bandage

Use elastic bandage to wrap gently and evenly to help reduce swelling and speed up recovery. Do not bandage too tightly as this may affect circulation behind the bandage.

Note: Always check the toes for bruising or numbness, if so loosen the elastic bandage.

High

You need to elevate the injured limb above the heart to increase venous blood flow to the circulatory system and reduce swelling.

After falling, the victim cannot stand up, has severe pain in the back or neck, cannot turn the neck, has loss of sensation and movement, and is likely to have a spinal cord injury. You need to stay calm and call an ambulance for immediate medical assistance, because any attempt to turn or carry the victim at this time can aggravate the damage to the cervical or lumbar spinal cord, leading to paralysis.

Dr. Huy recommends taking measures to prevent accidents in the home. For example, stairs should have handrails on both sides, do not leave unnecessary items on the stairs, pay attention to enough light for both going up and down. The bathroom should not be slippery, can be covered with anti-slip mats, or make a separate shower area so that water does not splash all over the floor. Windows should not be sliding but should be installed with bars. Balconies should be at a safe height, with appropriate cover. For young children, adults should always watch them when they play in the hallway, balcony, on the street...