Sprained Joint

Sudden twists and turns may wrench, disrupt or damage the ligaments and tendons around a joint causing 'joint sprain'. This is followed by pouring (effusion) of a fluid into the joint, swelling and pain. The most common sprains are those of the ankle, the wrist, the fingers and the knee.

Since shock is always present when a sprain occurs, give a dose of Arnica 200 immediately. Arnica controls shock as well as bleeding in the tissues, and may be all that is needed. If, however, after a day or so improvement seems to Come to a standstill, Ruta graveolens 30 will help. Ruta, given four times a day, beneficially acts on wrenched and torn ligaments and promotes healing.

If Ruta does not relieve pain and swelling within twenty-four hours, a deeper-acting remedy Symphytum 30 can be tried. Symphytum, made from a plant comfrey, was called 'knit-bone' by ancient physicians.

On the other hand, if pain and stiffness are worse after a period of rest (i.e., when beginning to move) and better after some activity, Rhus tox 30 given every six to eight hours will help.

Other homoeopathic remedies worth considering when treating joint-sprains are­

Bryonia 30, when the pain is worse on least movement and better by absolute rest.

Ledum 30, when there is much swelling, and the affected joint is numb and cold, yet feels better with cold applications.

As usual, discontinue the medicine as soon as considerable relief has been obtained. Prolonged continuation of the remedy defeats the purpose, and may even cause a temporary worsening of symptoms as the person starts 'proving' the given remedy.