If a fracture is suspected, do not move the injured area; keep it supported and apply cold compresses for no more than 20 minutes. Never try to realign it yourself.

No cost involved. Use a rigid board, rolled-up magazines, or clothing as a splint. Wrap cold items in a cloth before applying them to the skin.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies published its 2025 International First Aid Guidelines. They state that “any injury to a limb should be treated as a possible fracture” and that “the only reliable way to confirm a fracture is by X‑ray; when in doubt, treat it as a fracture.” The purpose of immobilization is “to minimize movement and pain.” Cold compresses “should be applied for no more than 20 minutes at a time to reduce pain; longer exposure may damage the skin.” “For fractures of long bones such as the femur, bleeding from the bone itself can be life‑threatening.” Call emergency services when there is significant pain or swelling, signs of shock, a suspected femoral fracture, or obvious deformity of the limb. Whether to attempt on‑site reduction of an angulated fracture depends on two conditions: first, “the location is remote (or resources are limited) and the limb below the angle appears cold and pale, or the rescuer cannot immobilize it adequately for transport”; second, the rescuer must be trained. For open fractures, the priority is controlling bleeding and preventing infection.

International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (2025). International First Aid, Resuscitation and Education Guidelines 2025，第 301–302 页. https://www.ifrc.org/sites/default/files/2026-03/IFRC%20International%20First%20Aid,%20Resuscitation%20and%20Education%20Guidelines%202025.pdf

This grade B rating reflects that these measures are widely accepted practice. One older study suggests that traction immobilization for femoral fractures before hospital care can reduce blood transfusion needs and shorten hospital stays; however, differences in mortality or complications were too small to be meaningful, and the study’s reliability is low. There is no evidence to guide whether to attempt reduction versus simple immobilization. Three common misconceptions should be corrected: being able to stand or walk does not rule out a fracture; cold compresses alone are recommended, not alternating hot and cold; and sprains will not “loosen up” with movement — rest is essential. For elderly patients with suspected fractures after a fall, follow the precautions outlined in item 2. Swelling of one leg after casting or bed rest may indicate a blood clot; see item 11. Information on disability assessment and eligibility for a disability certificate after treatment can be found in section 24, items 10 and 11.