HOW TO TREAT A LEG FRACTURE

Most leg injuries are only sprains, but the treatment for both sprains and fractures is the same.


1) If skin is broken, do not touch or put anything on the wound.
You must avoid infection. If the wound is bleeding severely, try to stop the flow of blood by applying steady pressure to the affected area with sterile bandages or clean clothes.
2) Do not move the injured leg—you need to splint the wound to stabilize the injured area.
3) Find two stiff objects of the same length—wood, plastic, or folded cardboard—for the splints.
4) Put the splints above and below the injured area— under the leg (or on the side if moving the leg is too painful).
5) Tie the splints with string, rope, or belts—whatever is available. Alternatively, use clothing torn into strips. Make sure the splint extends beyond the injured area.
6) Do not tie the splints too tightly; this may cut off circulation.
You should be able to slip a finger under the rope or fabric. If the splinted area becomes pale or white, loosen the ties.
Have the injured person lie flat on their back.
This helps blood continue to circulate and may prevent shock.


WHAT TO AVOID

• Do not push at, probe, or attempt to clean an injury; this can cause infection.
• Do not move the injured person unless absolutely necessary. Treat the fracture and then go get help.
• If the person must be moved, be sure the injury is completely immobilized first.
• Do not elevate a leg injury.
• Do not attempt to move or reset a broken bone; this will cause severe pain and may complicate
the injury.