When acute injury occurs due to a knock or fall, the body’s initial reaction is to create inflammation in the area surrounding the injury. The inflammation is characterized by redness, swelling, localised heat and pain.
If the inflammation is allowed to progress, the healing process will be delayed and the elasticity of the tissue may be reduced, leaving it susceptible to injury in the future. Following the PRICE treatment method when injury occurs is the best way to ensure a full and quick recovery.
P - Protect the injured area from further strains. Immobilize the joint or limb using a sling, tape or other method as required.
R - Rest the injured area to give it time to heal.
I - Ice the injured part for 15-20 minutes every two to three hours initially. Avoid direct contact with the ice on the skin by wrapping the ice in a cloth or towel. Do not apply ice if you have circulatory or sensory problems as this may lead to ice burn (frostbite).
C - Compress the injured area using a pressure bandage or tape, but avoid wrapping it too tightly.
E - Elevate the injured limb above the level of your heart if possible. This will help to reduce the swelling.
If the injury looks serious - suspected broken bone or heavy bleeding - do not wait, go to the emergency department immediately.
Full healing and recovery of the injured area can take anything from a couple of weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the injury. Even if the patient feels better it doesn’t mean the tissue is fully healed. Adequate physiotherapy - strengthening exercises, balance training, specialized manipulation (hands on therapy) and other methods - will increase the collagen tensile strength. This will lead to increased soft tissue stability and flexibility, help to avoid reinjuring the area in the future and allow return to normal activity and movement.
Contributed by Hamad Medical Corporation
