Protect
The first few days after picking up an injury, you should do your best to rest the joint, muscle or ligament that has been impacted.
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Only after a few days of rest should you begin to introduce gentle motion.
Ice
Apply ice or cold therapy products to the injured area for roughly 20 minutes every 2 hours, to be continued for the first 48 to 72 hours.
Compression
Apply a firm but flexible bandage, especially when applying ice.
Elevation
While in pain, try to keep the injury above heart level.