Sprains: symptoms and treatment
In our children’s diseases encyclopedia you will find information on the causes and the best treatment options for children’s diseases from A to Z.
sprains
General
Children romp and play and minor injuries can quickly occur. Falls often lead to sprains or bruises, in the worst case the bone breaks.
For the treatment of or against bruises, strains and sprains in small children, it is often sufficient to rub the affected area with a pain-relieving ointment that cools at the same time. Cold compresses can relieve pain and prevent swelling.
Causes of Sprains
A sprain occurs when the joint has been forcibly moved unnaturally, exceeding the joint’s natural range of motion.
A bruise or strain is caused by overstretching of the ligaments in a joint as a result of a fall or overload. In extreme cases, a ligament tear can also occur.
Sprain symptoms
Bruises can be recognized by a visible swelling, often accompanied by a bruise. It is caused by damage to blood vessels under the skin. A reddish-blue-purple discoloration and swelling of the affected area is visible and your child will complain if you touch it there.
A sprain can be recognized by a rapidly increasing swelling in the area of a joint. Your child can only move the joint with severe pain, and there is often a bruise at the site of the injury. Sprains rarely break bones in children, but they can occur and require medical attention.
treat sprains
With all injuries, immediate cooling has a beneficial effect on the swelling. Wet towels (or a packet of frozen spinach wrapped in a towel) will provide the necessary cooling. If you still have space in the freezer for a gel cold compress, you should always have one on hand, because it remains supple even when frozen and can also be used for burns and insect bites. You should be careful with ice sprays. Too much of it can damage the skin in the form of frostbite.
It is also helpful if the affected arm or leg is elevated, for example on a pillow or something similar.
In general, give Arnica first in all falls and accidents. This homeopathic remedy reduces swelling and relieves pain.
prevent sprains
If your child does a lot of sport, they should warm up beforehand to prevent strains or overstretching of cold muscles.
Otherwise minor accidents happen in everyday life with children and, apart from the usual precautionary measures, cannot be avoided.