Strains, sprains, dislocations, fractures

Prevention of injuries to muscles and musculoskeletal system is important because of their high frequency, and includes safe stay of the child in the house, on the playground, in the vehicle, use of protective equipment during sports and recreational activities, as well as avoiding excessive exertion.

The most common signs and symptoms of muscle, bone or joint injuries are:

  • pain and discomfort that intensify when moving;
  • swelling at the site of injury;
  • a shape of the joint or bone that deviates from normal;
  • unnatural position of the injured body part;
  • inability to use or move the injured body part;
  • injured body part cold and insensitive.

What to do if an injury occurs?

  • Try to comfort the child and tell him/her not to move.
  • Immobilize the injured body part in the position in which it was found - you can support it with something soft (a pillow, etc.) or hold it with your hand.
  • Secure the injured body part with a splint only when you have to move the child due to imminent danger or a condition that requires urgent transport to a medical institution.
  • If the skin is not damaged, put a plastic bag or a cloth with ice on the injured body part and keep it for at least 20 minutes. (You can apply these compresses every hour during for the next 48 hours and keep them for about 20 minutes.)
  • Keep the injured body part at the level of the heart or raise it slightly, but only if this movement does not cause additional pain to the child.

What not to do?

  • Do not move or try to set the injured body part, as this can damage blood vessels and nerves!
  • Do not put ice directly on the skin!

When to call an ambulance?

  • If the femur or pelvis is injured
  • If the body part below the injury is stiff, pale, blue or cold
  • If there is an open bone fracture (broken bone protruding from the skin)
  • If you cannot move the child safely

If the child is unconscious and shows no signs of life, it is necessary to start cardiopulmonary resuscitation immediately and call the emergency medical service as soon as possible (194).