Sprains, burns, and lacerations are common events that may need medical attention but may not need a visit to the emergency room. There are times when a minor strain or burn can be self-treated at home by simply taking over-the-counter meds and resting the injured body part. Other times, you may need to apply ice or a compress to the area. First-degree burns may need wet compresses, petroleum jelly and be covered by a nonstick bandage to protect the area from infection. There are time when applying a bandage can do more harm than good if it is not done properly. The rule of thumb is that if you are only swelling or bruising, your pain is manageable and you can move the area a little, you can treat the sprain at home. Nevertheless, it is always recommended that you visit your primary care provider if you need a professional to take a look at it, especially if several days have passed and your injury does not seem to improve.

Minor injuries happen to people of all ages and can include scrapes, cuts, bruises, sprains, and strains. We routinely take care of minor injuries in our office and clean and bandage scrapes and burns, evaluate, and treat strains, sprains, insect and animal bites, and remove stitches.