A sprain is an injury to the ligaments around a joint. Ligaments are strong, flexible fibers that hold bones together. When a ligament is stretched too far or tears, the joint will become painful and swell.

SIGNS
Joint pain or muscle pain, swelling, joint stiffness, discoloration of the skin, especially bruising.

FIRST AID
Stop what you're doing. Just remember the acronym RICE:
R-EST: Avoid any movement that cause pain.
I-MMOBILIZE: If you suspect a serious injury, you must immobilize the injured part before giving additional care such as applying ice or elevating the injured part.If EMS is expected within minutes, keep the person from moving but do not splint the part.
C-OLD: Apply ice (bags with crushed ice, cold packs, etc.) to the injured area to prevent or reduce swelling. A general rule for cold application is 15 minutes every hour for the first 24 to 48 hours. DO NOT place ice directly on the skin.
E-LEVATE: Elevate the injured area above the level of the heart to slow the bloodflow to the injury.

Aspirin, ibuprofen, or other pain relievers can help.

CALL IMMEDIATELY FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IF:
You suspect a broken bone.
The joint appears to be deformed.
You have a serious injury or the pain is severe.
There is an audible popping sound and immediate difficulty using the joint.

SEEK CARE IF:
Swelling does not go down within 2 days.
You have symptoms of infection - the area becomes redder, more painful, or warm, or you have a fever over 100 degrees F.
The pain does not go away after several weeks.