Rx Note

Introduction A sprain is an injury involving the overstretching or tearing of ligaments and/or the joint capsule. In contrast, a strain occurs when muscle fibers or tendons are damaged due to overstretching or tearing. PRICE Therapy Minor sprains and strains can usually be managed at home using PRICE therapy for the first 48 to 72 hours. The primary goal is to minimize swelling. If swelling is not controlled, the resulting pressure can limit mobility, lead to long-term muscle atrophy (wasting), and delay the overall recovery process. Protection Protect the affected area from further trauma, for example, by using a brace or support. Rest Avoid strenuous exercise and reduce daily physical activity. Use aids like crutches or a walking stick for lower limb injuries, or a sling for shoulder injuries, to offload weight. Ice Ice packs reduce the metabolic needs of the tissues, reduce blood flow and result in less tissue damage and swelling. Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 min...

Introduction A bruise (also known as contusion) is an injury appearing as an area of discoloured skin that is commonly caused by blunt impact , such as a fall, trauma or bump, resulting in damage of the soft tissues, including rupture of small blood vessels (capillaries) without cuts on the skin . Older people are more prone to bruising. NOTE: A haematoma is a larger collection of blood, usually caused by surgery, injury or greater trauma. Like a bruise, haematomas will usually be reabsorbed into the body. However, depending on the size, location and cause of the haematoma, the area may need to be drained surgically or take a longer period of time to resolve. Symptoms The blunt force trauma damages capillaries beneath the skin, causing blood to leak into the surrounding tissue. Skin discolouration is initially red or pink, gradually becoming blue, green and yellow. Most bruises heal in 1 to 2 weeks, but some take longer. NOTE: The characteristic colour changes of a bruise are due to...