Soft Tissue Injuries

Sprains and strains of the soft tissues around joints are quite common. They happen when
someone moves suddenly in an awkward direction, or has a bad landing from a fall.

• A sprain is a twisted or torn ligament.

• A strain is when a muscle or tendon has been overstretched and is partially torn

How to ‘recognise a sprain or strain

There are three key things to look for if you think someone may have a sprain or strain:

• Pain and tenderness

• Difficulty moving
• Swelling and bruising

How to help
To treat a soft tissue injury, remember RICE.

1. Rest – help the casualty to sit or lie down, and support the injury in a comfortable raised
position
2. Ice – apply an ice pack or cold pad for no more than ten minutes
3. Comfortable support – wrap a soft layer of padding (e.g. cotton wool) around the injury,
and tie a support bandage (this could be an elasticated bandage) to keep it in place
4. Elevate – Keep the injury elevated. Support it with something soft, like cushions.

You won’t usually need to take someone with a soft tissue injury to hospital unless they are in
severe pain or unable to use their limb. If neither of these apply, they will need to make sure
the injured limb is rested, and they/the people caring for them will need to decide if they need
to see a health care professional for further treatment.

Soft Tissue Injuries Page 1