If an injury is not treated properly or allowed to heal fully, more damage can be done, and eventually you can be in pain from even the slightest exertion. It's possible to prevent many sports injuries. It's also a good idea to cool down after activity with five to 10 minutes of gentle exercise. R est the injured area. I ce the injured area for 20 minutes of every hour for the first 24 hours.
C ompress the injured area to protect and support the injury.
E levate the injured area above the heart to reduce swelling. A sprain occurs when a ligament tissue is strectched or torn at the joint. Mild sprains generally heal rapidly, but if not treated and not properly rested, the joint can often be reinjured. Symptoms of a sprain include pain, swelling, tenderness and bruising. A strain occurs when a muscle tendon is stretched or torn.