Emergency At-Home Treatment for Sprains and Strains

Getting to a hospital in case of an emergency is becoming increasingly difficult and getting immediate care is well-nigh impossible. It is important to know how to take care of simple emergencies, like sprains and strains at home.

What Is the Difference Between a Sprain and a Strain?

A sprain occurs when a ligament or muscle gets twisted and a strain happens if it is overextended. These problems can happen even when you are at home doing a household chore and can be quite painful. Both, a simple sprain and strain can be alleviated with similar home treatments.

Home Treatment for Sprain or Strain

·     RICE Therapy – Stands for Rest, Ice, Compress and Elevate

Rest the area for as long as possible or till the pain recedes. If you have to move about, use crutches so that the injured area is not overloaded.

Ice the area for 20 minutes every hour. Wrap a bandage around the area to compress it. You can use a brace, a sports tape or even a bandage to hold the area in place. It is important to keep the injured area elevated to reduce inflammation. Keep it raised on a pillow.

Also Read: Treating an ankle sprain

Medication for Pain and Inflammation

Regular NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) like Advil, Aspirin, etc. can help with the pain and inflammation.

·    Speak to a Tele health Expert

Get advice on what to do and what kind of medication to take by consulting your podiatrist over the phone. For simple strains and sprains, you should start feeling better over a couple of days with the above treatment. You should see a doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:

• If there is a popping or crunching sound with the injury.

• If there is substantial swelling which doesn’t reduce.

• If the person cannot move the foot.

• If the person cannot put weight on the foot.

• If there is numbness.

Importance of At-Home Foot Care for the Elderly

Though lock downs are gradually being lifted, the older generation has to continue being careful and step out only if absolutely necessary. They should strive to minimize visits to hospitals and clinics. This means taking care of their body, including their feet. Elderly people are prone to foot ailments and if they have a foot problem in these stressful times, it may be difficult to get it treated. Here are some tips on taking care of your feet at home.

      Wear the Right Footwear

Wear proper footwear that gives a good grip on the floor and offers support. This prevents falls and offers stability; it helps protect the feet from injuries as well. A lightweight trainer with a good strap is ideal for use inside the house while boots are a good choice for the outdoors.

Stretching Exercises

Circulation is important for the feet. When you are seated for long periods of time, flex your toes and wriggle them to keep the circulation going.

        

    Read More: A Daily Foot Care Routine

  

      Keep Your Feet Warm

If the weather is cold, make sure that you wear socks to protect your feet and keep them warm. The socks will also act as a protection against dirt and dust by preventing them from getting under your toe nails.

Moisturize Twice a Day

As people age, their skin dries up faster and this is true for the skin on the feet as well. Constant moisturizing can help prevent corns and calluses.

Keep the Feet Dry

Wet and sweaty feet can cause toe fungus. It is important to wipe your feet dry before wearing footwear. If you have sweaty feet, it may help to wear breathable shoes or open toed sandals.

Cut Nails Regularly

If nails are not cut regularly, it could cause ingrown toe nails that could get infected.

Following these simple home care routines for the feet will ensure that the feet stay healthy and the risk of developing a foot problem is minimized.