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Online First Aid Course

Learn how to provide essential care before emergency responders arrive with our 100% Online First Aid Course. Receive instant certification valid for 2 years, plus unlimited quiz retakes.

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24 6.0 2 Years $36.95 2-3 Hrs Compliant Unlimited Download/Print/Mail
  • Chapters24
  • CE Credits6.0
  • Validity2 Years
  • Cost$36.95
  • Duration2-3 Hrs
  • ECCCompliant
  • Exam AttemptsUnlimited
  • Wallet CardDownload/Print/Mail

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Chapter 22: Muscle, Bone and Joint Emergencies

Injuries to muscles, bones, or joints can happen when a body part moves in a way it’s not supposed to. This kind of emergency often results in sprains, fractures, broken bones, or dislocations.

These injuries are usually caused by falls, trips, or sudden impacts. Everyday activities like running or exercising, playing sports, or being involved in a motor vehicle accident can all lead to muscle, bone, or joint damage.

Some clear signs that something is wrong include

  • Bruising or swelling
  • Sharp pain at the injury site
  • A snapping or popping sound was heard when the injury occurred
  • Trouble using the limb or joint normally
  • Numbness, coldness, or bluish discoloration
  • Visible bone fragments or a deformed body part

Broken or fractured shoulder bone marked in red

A fracture, or broken bone, can range from a small chip or crack to a complete break. If the bone breaks through the skin, it’s considered an open fracture, which is more serious than a closed one, though closed fractures are more common.

A dislocation happens when a bone moves out of its usual position at a joint. This stops the joint from working properly. Dislocations often happen at the shoulder, elbow, wrist, jaw, or hip.

A sprain means ligaments at a joint have torn or stretched. It usually affects the ankle, wrist, knee, or fingers. A strain, on the other hand, is when a muscle is stretched or torn. This often happens in the neck, back, thigh, or calf.

When dealing with a sprain or strain, remember the RICE method:

  • Rest the injured area—don’t move or straighten it.
  • Immobilize the part by keeping it in the position you found it. Use a sling or splint if needed.
  • Cold treatment can help—use ice (wrapped in a towel) for up to 20 minutes.
  • Elevate the area if it doesn’t cause more pain.

If you come across a muscle, bone, or joint emergency, here’s what to do:

  • Check the scene to make sure it’s safe.
  • Put on personal protective equipment and grab your First Aid kit.
  • Cover any open wounds with a clean dressing.
  • Don’t move any area that looks bent or deformed.
  • For closed fractures or dislocations, keep the injured part still and padded. Use a sling or tie it gently to another part of the body to prevent movement.
  • For sprains and strains, follow the RICE steps, including applying cold for no more than 20 minutes.
  • Call 9-1-1 if the injury involves a large open wound or if the person’s condition gets worse.

This chapter in your Online First Aid Course helps you understand how to recognize and manage injuries to muscles, bones, and joints so you can act quickly and safely in real-world emergencies.