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KidsCare Online

Arm or Leg Injury, Minor

Care at Home

Treatment of Pulled Muscle, Bruised Muscle or Bruised Bone:
- Apply an ice bag or massage the area with ice for 20 minutes per hour. Repeat for 4 consecutive hours. After 48 hours, use local heat for 10 minutes 3 times per day to help reabsorb the blood.
- Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief. Continue for at least 48 hours. See dosage chart. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a pediatric brand containing either of these ingredients.
- Rest the injured part as much as possible for 48 hours.
- For pulled muscles, teach your youngster about stretching exercises and strength training.
Treatment of Mild Sprains (stretched ligaments) of Ankle or Knee:
- First aid: immediate compression and ice to reduce bleeding, swelling, and pain.
- Treat with R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) for the first 24 to 48 hours.
- Apply compression with a snug, elastic bandage for 48 hours. Numbness, tingling, or increased pain means the bandage is too tight.
- Apply crushed ice in a plastic bag for 20 minutes per hour. Repeat for 4 consecutive hours.
- Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief. Continue for at least 48 hours. See dosage chart. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a pediatric brand containing either of these ingredients.
- Keep injured ankle or knee elevated and at rest for 24 hours.
- After 24 hours, allow any activity that doesn't cause pain.
Expected Course:
- Pain and swelling usually peak on day 2 or 3.
- Swelling is usually gone by 7 days
- Pain may take 2 weeks to completely resolve.
IF your child becomes worse: Review Should I Call? recommendations.