how+to+treat+an+injury

=How to Treat an Injury=

Questions to Ask
How did the injury occur? What is the extent of the injury? Is it swollen? Can you weight-bear on the joint? //if sharp pain, possibly fracture//

RICER

 * Rest:** place in a comfortable position/supported for >48-72 hours
 * Ice:** apply 'indirect' ice for 20 minutes (or as long as tolerated) every 2 hours for first 48-72hrs to reduce swelling, pain, bleeding
 * Compression:** apply firm/wide elastic bandage above, below and across injured area. Hold ice in place
 * Elevation:** raise affected area to reduce swelling at site of injury
 * Referral:** refer to doctor/physiotherapist if injury shows no sign of improvement after 48 hours or pain is severe

HARM
Advised to do 'No HARM' in the first 48-72 hours after injury
 * Heat:** increases bleeding
 * Alcohol:** increases bleeding + swelling
 * Running:** increases blood flow to injured site, delays healing, worsens injury
 * Massage:** increases swelling + bleeding

Pain Relief
Use paracetamol + codeine (if needed) Use of NSAIDs are not recommended in the acute management of soft tissue injuries - decreases inflammation, may impair the healing process - may delay acute healing, slow muscle regeneration, compromise long-term healing

CMI
[|RICER / No HARM] [|Sprains and Strains - Self-care Card]