b'Muscle, Joint and Bone InjuryChapter hapterWhen an engineer designs a building or bridge, there are plans for a very strong framework of steel beams and girders. The skeleton is very similar because it is our framework of strong beams that support our flesh and organs. The skeleton is jointed in many places and the muscles allow the joints to move in various directions.When an injury occurs, it is difficult to determine whether it is related to bone, joint or a muscle. It is always best for the first aider to suspect the injury may possibly be a fracture. If there is any doubt or if you are unsure, always treat as a fracture.Sprains and StrainsWhen the softer structures around bones and joints (muscles, ligaments and tendons) are injured, they are commonly referred to as sprains and strains.SprainLigaments connect bones at a joint. A sprain occurs when a sudden or unexpected wrenching action results in the ligament being over stretched and partially or completely torn (ruptured).StrainTendons attach muscle to bone. A strain occurs when a sudden or unexpected wrenching action results in the muscle and or tendon being over stretched and partially or completely ruptured. This often occurs at the junction of the muscle and the tendon that joins it to the bone.These injuries are accompanied by internal bleeding into the surrounding tissues, which result in pain, swelling and bruising.Muscle, Joint and Bone Injury 109'