Sprains and Dislocations

when injury forces a joint beyond its normal range of movement, the ligaments that hold it together become sprained - that is, stretched or torn. Dislocation occurs when bones are forced out of their normal position within a joint.

Sprains and dislocations may be associated with FRACTURES and have similar symptoms and signs. If you are unsure, treat such injuries as fractures and seek medical aid immediately.

Sprains commonly affect ankles, but can also occur in a wrist, elbow, knee, hip or shoulder. The most common dislocations involve the shoulder, elbow, fingers and jaw.

Sprains

Symptoms and signs

• pain and tenderness around the joint
• restricted movement of the joint
• swelling and sometimes bruising

Warning

Do not move the joint if you suspect it could be fractured.

First aid treatment

1. Apply a compression bandage that extends well beyond the joint on both sides.
2. Rest the joint in the most comfortable position and apply a cold compress to ease pain and reduce swelling.
3. Seek medical aid.

Dislocations

Symptoms and signs

• intense pain
• deformity
• inability to move the joint
• swelling and sometimes bruising

Warning

• Do not move the joint if you suspect a fracture.
• Do not attempt to push the dislocated bones back into position.
• Do not give the casualty anything to drink or eat, in case a general anaesthetic is needed to correct the dislocation.

First aid treatment

1. Support and rest the joint in the most comfortable position.
2. Apply a cold compress.
3. Seek medical aid immediately.

If the casualty has a dislocated jaw, see HEAD AND FACIAL INJURIES.