Sprains

Summary

Overview: When the ligaments and other connective tissues are stretched or torn in a joint we call the injury a sprain. Severe sprains are often accompanied by bleeding that in turn causes bruising. As with a simple bruise the first step is to get ice or very cold compresses on the injury to limit the inflammation. Analgesic essential oils such as lavender or marjoram that do not over stimulate circulation can be used immediately. After the swelling is controlled use a blend of oils that both limits pain and increases circulation to speed healing. Consider a pain blend or a blend of 2 drops ginger and 2 drops clove. These will reduce pain but if more pain relief is needed continue with lavender or marjoram. Also consider helichrysum for further healing.

Other oils: eucalyptus, peppermint, and rosemary.

Application: Use a cold compress to limit swelling with topical application of the pain relieving oils. As swelling subsides, usually 12-48 hours, accelerate the healing process with the blend of ginger and clove. Apply this with hot and cold compresses or hot and cold foot-baths (if an ankle). The compress or bath should include the blend and hot and cold should be repeated every 5 or 10 minutes, for 3 or 4 rotations. Then this whole process should be repeated every 3 to 12 hours depending on the severity. Special Precautions: If after the first 2-4 days the sprain is not responding to the treatment, there may be a broken bone or severely torn ligament and it should be reviewed by a licensed medical doctor.