Bone, Muscle, & Joint Injuries
The musculoskeletal system is made of bones that form the skeleton along with muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. These things give the body shape, form, and stability. The bones and muscles work together to make body parts move.
Fractures
A fracture is a break, chip, or crack in a bone. Fractures are usually caused by direct or indirect forces. Strong twisting forces and muscle contractions can also cause a fracture.
Dislocation
A dislocation is a separation of a bone from its normal position at a joint. Dislocations are usually caused by strong forces. Some joints, such as the shoulder or fingers, dislocate relatively easily because their bones and ligaments provide less protection.
Sprain
A sprain is a tearing of ligaments at a joint when the bones are forced beyond their normal range of motion. The sudden forcing of a joint can completely rupture ligaments and dislocate bones. The bones may also fracture.
Strain
A strain is a stretching and tearing of a muscle or tendon. It is sometimes called a muscle pull or tear. Strains often result from lifting something too heavy, working a muscle too hard, or moving suddenly. Strains are common in the neck or back, the front or back of the thigh, or the back of the lower leg.
Muscle Cramps
Although not an injury, muscle cramps are a type of pain that occurs after heavy exercise or if the arm or lef is in the same position for a long time.
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain.
- Swelling.
- Tenderness.
- Inability to use the injured part.
- Discoloration of the skin.
- Deformaty.
- External bleeding.
- A feeling of bones grating.
- A feeling or sound of a snapping at the time of injury.
First Aid
- Keep the casualty comfortable i.e. have them rest.
- Immobilize the injured body part in the position found and never move the injury.
- Apply an cold compress over the area for about 15 minutes every hour except for open fractures.
- Elevate the injured body part, but only if it does not cause further pain or discomfort.
- Treat for shock.
- Seek professional medical help.