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Fractures and sprains: when there is no doctor

Wow, it could happen anytime, anywhere, without warning, even to the fit, active, and healthy. One slip or fall and, alas, you’re grounded (sometimes literally), with a fracture or sprain. An experienced orthopedic surgeon describes emergency procedures to help the victim until she can see a doctor.

The basic mistake that people make in the management of fractures and sprains is that they are both given the wrong importance. Sprains tend to be treated as a minor handicap over time and home remedies will heal; fractures, on the other hand, usually result in the pressing of all the panic buttons. Both approaches are flawed.

“A neglected sprain could result in permanent joint instability that may require a major operation later,” the orthopedic surgeon warns. A sprain occurs when soft tissues such as ligaments, joint capsules, muscles, and tendons are stretched beyond their limit, primarily as a result of heavy lifting, intermittent exercise, or playing a strenuous game such as badminton after a long interval.

On the other hand, people exaggerate fractures. Due to the immediate and often excruciating pain they generate, they are considered an extreme emergency and it is believed that if urgent treatment is not provided, permanent disability or loss of limb will result. So, in a state of panic, the patient is rushed to the nearest doctor who, if inexperienced or incapable or a mere mercenary, may perform an unnecessary operation “because it might turn into gangrene.” A corollary myth is that all fractures require surgery when, in fact, most fractures can be treated without surgery.

When is it a fracture and when is it a sprain?

When a person suffers a fracture, that is, a break in the bone, they experience shooting pain and the affected limb becomes incapacitated. In a sprain, bread may not be as powerful. The exception is a spinal sprain that could cause severe pain and lead to a stiff back.

In children it is usually the elbows and legs that are fractured, while in adults it is the thighs, hips and spine. The parts most prone to sprains are the ankles (especially in women who wear high-heeled shoes), the wrists, the lower back, and the neck.

Whose…

“Until a definitive diagnosis is made by a good orthopedist, don’t be tempted to resort to a home remedy like using a turmeric powder pack, it can only make the condition worse,” the orthopedic surgeon advises.

And do…

Both sprains and fractures are best treated by lightly pressing an ice pack on the area to reduce swelling and/or bleeding. Next, tie a firm bandage to the affected part, preferably reinforcing it with a handy splint such as a foot rule or a wad of newspaper or cardboard. The victim should be reassured and kept calm and rested while steps are taken to get the victim to a doctor. Pain relievers may be given.

However, if the accident occurs on the highway or in the playground, the victim should be lifted by four to six people, their bodies serving as cushions as far as possible, and made to rest nearby. If the upper extremities or neck are injured, the victim can be helped to walk to a taxi or other available means of transportation. However, if it is the legs that are injured, you should be transported or placed on a stretcher, if available, making sure that you do not put pressure on the affected limb at all times.

A child is less tolerant of pain, and his agitated parents could alarm him even more. Reassure him with a drink until he can receive medical attention. Tincture of iodine or an antiseptic ointment or lotion may be used on an abrasion or cut.

Any injury to the upper limb should be placed in a sling (available at the drug store or one can be made at home).

making a slingshot

A square meter of cloth (in an emergency, a sheet or even a towel) cut diagonally will make two slings. Support your hand with the widest angle pointing toward your elbow. The other two ends will go around the neck and will be tied in a secure double knot at the nape of the neck.

head injuries

Head injuries are often caused by violent traffic accidents or a fall from a height. This is a serious problem that requires quick action. The patient may lose consciousness immediately or may gradually lose consciousness. If he is unconscious, do not allow him to lie on his back or he could choke if he swallows saliva or blood (if he bleeds from his mouth). Slowly roll him on his side in a low forward position (no pillow), so the secrets, if any, can flow out. Call the doctor or call an ambulance.