Follow the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) first aid method for strains and sprains: 

1. First, help the patient sit down, ensuring they don’t put any weight on the affected area. Look out for symptoms of fracture. 
2. Next, wrap some ice or an ice pack in a damp cloth and apply it to the affected area for 15 minutes. Reapply the ice every 2 hours for the first 24 hours after the injury was sustained. Do not apply ice directly to the skin or a wound. 
3. Now, apply compression to prevent and relieve swelling. A compression bandage is ideal, but you can use a tight sock if you don’t have one on hand. Apply the bandage with firm pressure and make sure it extends past the injury site. 
4. Finally, elevate the affected limb to help relieve swelling. If the patient experiences pins and needles, move the limb down slightly. 

Remember, if a first aid incident is serious or life-threatening — for example, if you suspect the patient has sustained a fracture — call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance. Follow the St John DRSABCD Action Plan until help arrives.