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Safety Tips
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Bruises, sprains and strains commonly result when children fall, play sport (particularly competitive sports) or collide with objects or people when excitedly running about.
The injury affects soft tissues in the body, such as muscles, ligaments and blood vessels. These tissues can be torn, over-stretched or damaged. Soft tissue injuries can take days, weeks, or even months to heal but applying first aid can help relieve pain and assist with healing.
Although there are differences in the signs and symptoms, the first aid is the same for sprains, strains and bruises. Fractures are also common in children and may have the same signs and symptoms as a soft tissue injury. If there is any doubt always have the child assessed by a doctor.
Signs and SymptomsBruises
- Pain
- Tenderness
- Change in colour of skin (red, purple or black)
- Swelling
Sprains
- Pain around the joint
- Swelling
- Reduced movement
- Bruising
- Strain
- Sudden sharp pain
- Limb weakness
- Stiffness and cramping
- Place the child in as comfortable a position as possible. A pillow, folded clothing or blanket placed underneath an injured arm or leg will help.
- Place a covered ice-pack (or wrap ice or a packet of frozen peas in a damp cloth) on the injured part. Never apply heat as this will make the injury worse. Do this for 10-20 minutes, every 2 hours for the first 24 hours, then every 4 hours for a further 24 hours.
- After each ice-pack treatment, wrap a crepe or stretch bandage over the injury and surrounding area.
- If the injury does not improve, or if you have any concerns, take the child to a doctor.
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