Broken bones, sprains, strains and dislocations

Broken bones

Keep them still.Ask them not to move, and support the injured part above and below the injury. Use padding to help.

Don't try to straighten it.Don't move them unless they're in danger.

An open fracture (a wound where the bone has come through): cover it with a sterile dressing, and press around the wound, not on the bone.

Call 999 for an open fracture, a broken thigh or other long bone, or a suspected break in the back, neck or pelvis. They need to be seen, but most people won't need an ambulance. Take them to an urgent treatment centre or A&E, or call 111 if you're not sure where to go. If you're seriously concerned at any point, call 999.

Watch for shock.Don't raise their legs if either might be broken.

Signs of a broken bone

Pain, swelling, bruising or an odd shape; difficulty moving it; a limb that looks shorter or twisted; a grating feeling; or bone showing through the skin.

Dislocations

Don't try to put the joint back in. It can cause more damage.
Support it in the most comfortable position. Use a sling for a shoulder or elbow, or padding and broad bandages for a knee, ankle or hip.
Take off any watch or rings before it swells.
They need to be seen, but most people won't need an ambulance. Take them to an urgent treatment centre or A&E, or call 111 if you're not sure where to go. If you're seriously concerned at any point, call 999.

Sprains and strains

Protect it, and rest it: stop the activity and keep weight off it.
Ice: a wrapped ice pack, or frozen veg in a tea towel, for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours.
Compression: a bandage to support it during the day.
Elevation: keep it raised on a pillow as much as possible.
For the first few days, avoid heat, alcohol and massage.

Get it checked

Go to A&E if they heard a crack, the area has changed shape, it's numb or tingling, or the skin around it has changed colour.