For a Suspected Sprain or Strain:

 Summer is here and accidents happen:

• If the injury involves your child's neck or back, do not move him unless the child is in imminent danger. Movement can cause serious nerve damage. Phone for emergency medical help. If your child must be moved, the neck and back must be completely immobilized first. Keeping the head, neck, and back in alignment, move your child as a unit.
• It may be difficult to tell the difference between a sprain and a break. If there is any doubt whatsoever, phone your doctor or take your child to the nearest hospital emergency department. An X-ray can determine whether a bone is broken.
• First aid for sprains and strains includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (known as RICE).
  • Rest the injured part of the body.
  • Apply ice packs or cold compresses for up to 10 or 15 minutes at a time every few hours for the first 2 days to prevent swelling.
  • Wearing an elastic compression bandage (such as an ACE bandage) for at least 2 days will reduce swelling.
  • Keep the injured part elevated above the level of the heart as much as possible to reduce swelling.
• Do not apply heat in any form for at least 24 hours. Heat increases swelling and pain.
• Your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.