An acute injury is an injury that occurred recently as a result of a traumatic event. Acute injuries in orthopedics include:

1) Muscle pulls
2) Ligament sprains
3) Fractures
4) Dislocations
5) Contusions (bruises)


Other acute injuries, not generally seen in orthopedics, include:

1) Lacerations
2) Electrical shocks
3) Burns

Acute Injury Treatment

Most acute orthopedic injuries respond to to R.I.C.E. treatment. This treatment represents:

1) Rest
2) Ice
3) Compression
4) Elevate

Acute injuries should be evaluated by a medical professional before beginning any treatment.