Injuries to Muscles, Bones, and Joints Chapter 8

Muscles Muscles are soft tissues. The body has over 600 muscles, most are attached to bones by strong tissues called tendons. Electrical Impulses- tiny jolts of electricity that cause muscles to contract and relax.

Bones The body has 200 bones. Humans are born with 275 bones. Bones are filled with blood and nerves.

What are the functions of our Skeleton? Provide shape and support. Enable movement Protect internal organs Produce Red blood cells Store nutrients for use.

Joints The ends of two or more bones coming together at one place form a joint. They are held together by ligaments.- strong, tough bands.

How are they Injured? Fractures Dislocations Strains Sprains They can happen in a variety of ways.

Fractures A fracture is a complete break, chip, or crack in a bone. Usually happens from a fall or blow to the bone. Twisting movements could also cause fractures.

Dislocations Dislocation – the movement of bone at a joint away from its normal position. Caused by a violent force tearing the ligaments that hold the bone in place. When the bone is no longer in place the joint cannot function. Often leaves a bump, ridge, or hallow.

Dislocations

Ridge Created from Dislocation.

Sprains Sprain- the tearing of ligaments at a joint. Mild sprains may swell but heal quick. If someone ignores swelling and pain they risk re-injury or making the injury worse. Severe sprains can involve fracture, dislocation. Joints most commonly sprained are the ankle, knee, wrist, and fingers.

Sprained Ankle

Strains Strain- the stretching and tearing of muscles or tendons. Often caused by lifting a heavy object or working the muscles too hard. Typically occurs in the neck, back, thigh, or the lower leg.

Back Strain

Caring for Muscle, Bone, or Joint injuries. (RICE) Rest - Do not move or straighten the injured area. Immobilize - Stabilize the injured area in the position it was found. Splint the injured part only if the person must be moved and it will not cause them more pain

R.I.C.E. (continued) Cold - Fill a plastic bag or wrap ice with a damp cloth and apply ice to the injured area for 20 min periods. Keep a thin barrier between ice and the skin. Elevate - Do Not elevate the injured part if it causes more pain.

What can we do to stabilize the injury? Use a splint to immobilize the injured area. Only use a splint when you have to move or transport someone requiring more medical attention, and it will not further harm them. Check for circulation before and after splinting. Splint both the bone and joints if you are unsure of the injury.

Types of splints Anatomic Soft Rigid The Ground

Head, Neck, and Back Injuries Mostly caused by Motor Vehicle crashes. (50%) Falls, sports accidents, acts of violence. Only X-rays, CAT scans, and MRIs can show the severity of injuries they should always be treated as serious injuries.

The Spine. The spine is a strong, flexible column of small bones that support the head and trunk. The spinal cord runs through circular openings of these bones called vertebrae. The vertebrae are separated from each other by cushions called disks.

Possible Injuries. Fracture Vertebrae Damage Nerves Tear ligaments Vertebrae can shift and squeeze the spinal cord. Sometimes leaves people paralyzed.

When should you suspect a person of a head, neck or back injury? Was involved in a motor vehicle crash. Was injured as a result of a fall from greater than a standing height. Complains of neck or back pain. Has tingling or weakness in the extremities. Is not fully alert. Appears to be intoxicated. Appears frail or over 65 years old.

How do we take care of these injuries? Call 9-1-1. Minimize the person’s head movement by placing your hands on both sides of the person’s head. Gently hold the head in the position in which you found it. Never remove a helmet or headwear unless it restricts air flow for breathing. If unconscious, keep checking for breathing and circulation.

Other Injuries. Chest Injuries- Sit the person so they can breathe easier. Sometimes chest injuries go with back injuries. You can wrap the persons arm to the injured side for support. Pelvic injuries- Keep the person lying flat. Watch for signs of internal bleeding. Minimize shock.