A fracture can be either open or closed and occurs when there is a crack or break in a bone. An open fracture is when the bone breaks the skin and is often visible, while a closed fracture does not break the skin. Joint injuries can occur when a large amount of strain is placed on the bones and tissue surrounding them. Examples of joint injuries include sprains and dislocations. A sprain is the tearing or stretching of the ligaments around a joint. A dislocation is when the bones of a joint are out of place.

Signs

swelling and discolorations
deformities
bones that protrude
noisy movements (eg. grating noises)

Procedure

for dislocations and fractures, it is best seek medical help
mild sprains and strains may be treated using the RICE method:
Rest-avoid excessively using the injured part
Ice-apply cold compresses for 15 minutes, then remove for 15 minutes then apply the compress again for 15 minutes (remove sooner if the area is very cold)
Compression-use a bandage to apply compression St. John's Ambulance recommends using a rollar bandage. Begin by wrapping 5 cm below the injury, overlapping 1/3 of the bandage width. The bandage should be tight but not enough to reduce circulation. After the injury is wrapped, recheck the dressing every few minutes to ensure the bandage is not too tight.
Elevation-raising the injury above heart level helps to reduce blood flow to the area and therefore reduces swelling