Soft tissue injuries occur when the body's muscles, tendons or ligaments experience trauma. We commonly refer to this as a ‘sprain’. If your child has been declared fit for discharge after being assessed and observed for a sprain, here are some things to help their recovery.
Care at home
Pain relief
Over-the-counter paracetamol (Panadol) or ibuprofen (Nurofen/Advil) can help your child move around and remain comfortable. Your doctor or nurse will discuss which pain-relieving medications are best and when to use them.
Rest
To help reduce inflammation and limit further damage, your child should stay off the injured area as much as possible for the first 24-48 hours after a sprain. Help your child get into a comfortable position that doesn’t put any strain on the affected area.
Ice
Apply an ice pack to the sprain for 20 minutes every 2 hours while your child is awake. Continue this for the first 48 hours after the sprain occurred. Remember to cover the ice pack with a wet towel, pillowcase or cloth. Don’t apply it directly to the skin.
Compression
If your child has a compression bandage over their injury to reduce inflammation and swelling, be sure to check the bandage isn’t too tight:
- Check for colour – if their limbs, including fingers or toes, appear white or blue compared to the other limb, take off the bandage.
- Check the temperature of the fingers or toes – they should be as warm as the uninjured hand or foot.
Elevation
Raise the injured area to the level of the heart or above. Resting it on a pillow can reduce bleeding, swelling and pain because gravity helps to drain the excess fluid away.
When to seek help
If your child’s pain or discomfort continues or gets worse, visit your doctor.
In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.
If you're not sure whether to go to an emergency department, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) and speak to a registered nurse.
Developed by the Emergency Department, Queensland Children's Hospital. We acknowledge the input of consumers and carers.
Resource ID: FS209. Reviewed: June 2024.
Disclaimer: This information has been produced by healthcare professionals as a guideline only and is intended to support, not replace, discussion with your child’s doctor or healthcare professionals. Information is updated regularly, so please check you are referring to the most recent version. Seek medical advice, as appropriate, for concerns regarding your child’s health.