WH&S – strains & sprains
Sprains and strains are quite common in the workplace. The right attention and proper treatment of a sprain or strain can stop the injury from getting any worse. Without treatment, a sprain of a ligament or a strain of a muscle can mean a long recovery. The idea is to reduce swelling and pain and get the right treatment to aid in the speed of recovery and rehabilitation.
Treatment of minor strains and sprains can be sped along with the use of some basic first aid. Here is a simple technique that is easy to remember – it’s called the R.I.C.E. technique which stands for:
- Rest
- Ice
- Compression; and
- Elevation
The RICE technique works to reduce swelling and is recommended for the first 24 to 48 hours after the injury.
You know your sprain or strain is more serious when you have any of the following signs:
- Severe pain and cannot weight-bear on the injured joint;
- The injured area looks crooked or has lumps and bumps (other than swelling);
- You cannot move the injured joint;
- You cannot walk more than four steps without significant pain;
- Your limb buckles or gives way; or
- You have numbness in any part of the injured area.
If you are in doubt about the seriousness of the injury, it is always better to err on the side of caution. This also serves as a timely reminder that 1300apprentice WH&S Manager is your first point of call should you be involved in any work-related accident or incident.
Source: http://bit.ly/cxSgNA
