Sprains and strains

S03.4-5/S13.4-6/S23.3-5/S33.5-7/S43.4-7/S53.4/S63.5-7/S73.1/S83.4-6/S93.4-6/T11.2/T13.2/ T14.3


DESCRIPTION

Clinical features include:

  • pain, especially on movement
  • limited movement
  • tenderness on touch
  • history of trauma

May be caused by:

  • sport injuries
  • overuse of muscles
  • slips and twists
  • abnormal posture

Note: In children always bear non-accidental injuries (assault) in mind.

EMERGENCY TREATMENT

Immobilise with firm bandage and/or temporary splinting.

Children

  • Paracetamol, oral, 10–15 mg/kg/dose 6 hourly when required. See paediatric dosing tool.

Adults

  • Paracetamol, oral, 1 g 4–6 hourly when required.
    • Maximum dose: 15 mg/kg/dose.
    • Maximum dose: 4 g in 24 hours.

AND

Children >12 years of age and adults

  • NSAID, e.g.:
  • Ibuprofen, oral, 200–400 mg 8 hourly with or after a meal

REFERRAL

  • Severe progressive pain.
  • Progressive swelling.
  • Extensive bruising.
  • Deformity.
  • Joint tenderness on bone.
  • No response to treatment.
  • Severe limitation of movement.
  • Suspected serious injury.
  • Recurrence.
  • Previous history of bleeding disorder.