What should you do about a sprain or strain?
With a mild to moderate sprain or strain, the recipe for treatment for the first two days is PRICE - Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.
Protect - protect the injured area from further injury e.g. by using a support.
Rest - rest the injured joint or muscle and avoid activity for the first 48-72 hours after injury.
Ice - for the first 48-72 hours after injury apply ice wrapped in a damp towel to the injured area for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the day. Do not apply ice directly to the skin as it may cause a cold burn.
Compress - compress or bandage the injured area to limit any swelling. It should be wrapped snugly around the affected area but it should not be too tight and should be taken off before going to sleep.
Elevate - keep the injured area raised and supported on a pillow to help reduce the swelling.
After two days, move on to massaging the joint with Transvasin Heat Rub and stretching it gently, while keeping the affected area warm.



