Health Tips for June 7

Health Tip: Have You Sprained Your Wrist?

Your wrist hurts after a fall. Is it a sprain, or another type of injury?

The wrist, as is the case with many joints, contains strong bands of tissue called ligaments that connect bones. An injury to one or more of these ligaments is called a sprain.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons said symptoms of a sprained wrist include:

• Swelling.
• Pain, especially when you flex the wrist.
• A bruise or unusual color of the skin surrounding the wrist.
• Tenderness or a warm feeling at the site of the injury.
• A tearing or popping sensation in the wrist.

Health Tip: Ease Neck Pain

When your neck aches from a disc problem, arthritis or injury, you may be able to get relief at home.

The ADAM Encyclopedia mentions these potential home remedies for neck pain:

• Take an over-the-counter medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Ice the area for the first 72 hours, then apply heat.
• Take a break from regular exercise and activities for a few days.
• Peform slow, gentle range-of-motion exercises to help stretch muscles in the neck.
• Gently massage painful parts of the neck.
• Sleep without a pillow on a firm mattress, or use a neck pillow.
• Wear a soft neck collar for a brief period.