Sprains and Strains - Treatment

AT HOME REMEDIES

Within the first day or two of injury, practice the “PRICE” approach:

P=protect
- Protect the site of injury from further injury using a sling, splint, or brace. 
R=Rest
- Rest the injured area.
I=Ice (not heat)
- Place an ice pack on the site of injury immediately after injury to reduce swelling and pain for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat 3 to 4 times per day.
C=Compress
- Compress the site of injury with an elastic bandage to stop the swelling. But do not wrap the bandage too tightly because this may reduce blood flow.
E=Elevate
- Elevate the injured area above heart level to reduce swelling.

After the pain and swelling has subsided, your doctor may recommend that you exercise the injured area or get physical therapy to strengthen the area of injury.

OVER-THE-COUNTER TREATMENTS

NSAIDS or Non-steroidal Inflammatory Drugs
- NSAIDS are the recommended choice of drugs to first use because they help reduce both inflammation and pain.
- Examples of NSAIDS include Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and Aspirin. Use Aspirin with Caution—It may worsen bleeding or bruising.

Acetaminophen
- Acetaminophen reduces pain.
- Examples of Acetaminophen include Tylenol.

Topical Pain Relievers 

- Topical pain relievers can be applied to the skin to reduce pain.
- Ingredients found in topical pain relievers include:  Hydrocortisone, Methyl Salicylate(Wintergreen Oil), Camphor, Menthol (Peppermint Oil), Methyl Nicotinate, Capsicin (Red Chili Peppers), and Trolamine Salicylate. 

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