For sprains and strains the signs to look out for are:
Difficulty in moving the limb and symptoms of severe pain and tenderness over the site of the injury distortion or swelling bruising.
If you have any doubts as to the nature of the injury treat as a fracture and support the injured area. If the injury is recent an ice pack or cold compress to the area for ten minutes should be applied. If you do use ice then ensure it is wrapped in a towel or similar as ice against the skin will cause a burn. if the injury is to a limb, surround the area with a layer of padding then bandage securely into place using gentle even pressure. Then elevate the limb every ten minutes it is wise to check the bandage is not too tight as this will cause increased pain and swelling, it may even cause tingling beyond the bandage and discolouration of the skin. if you are unsure about the severity of the injury then send the casualty to hospital.
