Sudden twists and turns may sprain, disrupt or damage the ligaments and tendons around a joint causing `joint sprain`. This is followed by pouring or effusion of a fluid into the joint, swelling and pain. The most common sprains are those of the ankle, the wrist, the fingers and the knee.

A dose of Arnica 200 should be given when shock is present along with a sprain. And it should be given immediately. Arnica controls shock as well as bleeding in the tissues, and may be all that is needed. However, if the improvement seems to come to a standstill after a day or so, Ruta graveolens 30 will help. Ruta, should be given four times a day. It is beneficial and acts on wrenched and torn ligaments and promotes healing.

If Ruta does not relieve pain and swelling within twenty-four hours, a deeper-acting remedy Symphytum 30 can be tried. Symphytum is usually made from a plant comfrey. This was also called `knit-bone` by ancient physicians.

On the other hand, if pain and stiffness are worse after a period of rest and better after some activity, Rhus tox 30 should be given every six to eight hours. That will help a lot in this case.

Other homoeopathic remedies worth considering when treating joint-sprains can be mentioned as

Bryonia 30 is helpful when the pain is worse on least movement and better by absolute rest.

Ledum 30 can be used when there is much swelling, and the affected joint is numb and cold. But in this case also it feels better with cold applications.

As usual, medicine can be discontinued as soon as considerable relief has been obtained. Prolonged continuation of the remedy defeats the purpose, and may even cause a temporary worsening of symptoms as the person starts `proving` the given remedy.