Upton Group Practice

Bruises and Sprains

Bruises

Bruises are very common in children.  They normally get better in seven to ten days.   Parents sometimes worry that a bone may be broken.  Children’s bones are rubbery and are less likely to break than adult bones.  If you are in any doubt, consult the doctor.

If a child gets up at once after a fall and moves about normally, it is unlikely that a bone has broken.  However, the child may be stiff the next day because of the bruising which has occurred.

Severe bruising can be treated by:

Rest for 24 to 48 hours.  In the case of a badly bruised leg, the limb should be raised.  Lying in bed is the easiest way to do this. A cold compress may ease a bad bruise if applied at once.  This is made by soaking some material in water or using a bag of frozen peas in a tea towel and applying it to the bruise. Bruises on the head may cause anxiety.  If the patient was not “knocked out” and can remember the accident, it is unlikely that a serious injury has resulted.

If the patient was knocked unconscious and cannot remember what happened, he or she should be taken to a hospital casualty department without delay.

Sprains

The injured part of the body will usually swell up and may look bruised.  It can sometimes be difficult to tell if it is broken or not, if in doubt consult your doctor.

Just Remember  R I C E

Rest

Ice - apply ice cubes in a plastic bag or use a bag of frozen peas

Compression - apply a cold compression bandage, but NOT TOO TIGHTLY so as to stop the blood flow

Elevation - raise the leg or support the arm in a sling

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Last modified: 15/09/2005