9. Sprains, Arnica Much Used for.--"Tincture of arnica." This should be
diluted with water about one and one-half for adults and one and
three-fourths for a child. This is one of the best known remedies for
sprains that can be obtained. Apply freely to the bruise or sprain.
PHYSICIANS' TREATMENT for Sprains.--Rest for a time (for some weeks). The
parts should be raised to lessen the blood supply. Hot applications,
through fomentations, or cold evaporations, lotions, massage later, and
support with a pad and a firm bandage, in some cases. When there is not
much swelling, a plaster of Paris bandage is sometimes applied at once in
order that absolute rest can be secured.
1. Tincture of Arnica.--This is an excellent remedy for sprains When the
part is much swollen and looks bluish is when it is especially beneficial.
It can be used full strength by saturating cloths and applying either hot
or cold, or diluted to half strength.
2. Hot Water.--Applied with soaked cloths on the part is very grateful in
some cases. It should be kept hot and plenty of water on the part all the
time. This should be applied for hours. Between the soakings, the parts
should be dressed with the lead and laudanum wash, and rubbed with
ichthyol ointment or camphor and laudanum liniment.
3. Cold Applications.--Cold water.--Some patients are more benefited by
the cold applications. The part should be elevated and a cloth wrung out
of ice cold water, or an ice bag should be kept on the part.
4. Lead and Laudanum Wash.--This should not be used if the skin is broken.
Then the laudanum, three-fourths water, can be used alone. Composition of
lead and laudanum wash, proportions four parts of undiluted lead water,
diluted with sixteen parts of water to one of laudanum. This can be made
stronger in the laudanum.
[386 MOTHERS' REMEDIES]