Ice decreases pain and swelling. Wrap some ice cubes in a dish towel or plastic bag and crush them by banging on the kitchen counter or smashing them with a hammer, or simply grab a bag of frozen veggies from the freezer and wrap it in a towel. Hold the ice pack against the injured area. Compression decreases swelling. Wrap an elastic bandage on an injured limb, make it snug but loose enough to stick one finger between the bandage and the skin.
Elevation decreases pain and swelling.
Place a pillow under the affected limb so that it's elevated approximately 6 inches. Support helps immobilize the limb and reduces pain. Splint the affected limb or, if you suspect a broken arm, rib, or collar bone, use a cloth or diaper sling to hold an arm in a bent position next to the body. Use whatever is on hand to create a simple splint. For example, you can use a ruler, paper towel roll, small firm pillow, coloring book or any other straight, firm object.