see also Sprains
Sprains - technically the overstretching or tearing of ligaments which bind joints together - can be mild or severe, and sometimes difficult to distinguish from Fractures and Dislocations. A strain is something similar in a muscle; a few or many muscle fibres may be torn. The symptoms are similar - swelling, stiffness, and pain when the joint or muscle is used. If questioning of the casualty leads you to suspect a fracture, treat the injury as such.
Otherwise, support the injured pan in the most comfortable position. Reduce swelling by applying a cold compress - soak the compress in Arnica solution made by mixing 10 drops of mother tincture with 0.25 litre (1/2 pint) cold water. Light bandaging will also help to reduce swelling. Remove the shoe if the ankle is sprained (ankle sprains are caused by 'going over' on the outside of the ankle), but bandage the joint firmly to give support. Take the person to hospital if pain is severe, if the casualty is unable to move the injured part, or if pain and swelling do not subside within 24 hours.
Specific remedy to be given every 1/2 hour for up to 10 doses
After Arnica, the following may be given 4 times daily until pain and stiffness wear off
- Where tendons, ligaments, or periosteum (tissue covering bone) are involved Ruta 30c
- Muscles torn, joint swollen, hot, and painful, pain intensifies when person starts to move but wears off with continued movement Rhus tox. 30c
- Joint very swollen, slightest movement causes pain Bryonia 30c
- Joint swollen, cold, and numb, but cold applications have a beneficial effect Ledum 30c
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