Sprain & Strain

A Sprain or Strain can be caused by a fall, a twist, or a hit to the body that forces a joint out of its normal position and it stretches the ligament supporting a joint. Strains can be acute or chronic. Chronic strains are overuse and Acute strains are associated with a recent injury.

A Spain is a stretch or tear of a ligament. Many ligaments can be injured at the same time or only one. A strain is an injury in the muscle or tendon. They happen mostly in the ankle, knee or fingers.

Sprain & Strain

Description

What causes a Sprain or Strain?

How is it diagnosed?

Signs & Symptoms

People who suffer a Sprain or a Strain experience pain, swelling, limited motion, cramping, inflammation and muscle weakness. Everything depends on the severity of the sprain.

Sprains and strains are diagnosed by MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or XRays.

Spains and Strains treatment are similar and they have 2 stages of treatment. The first stage is about reducing the swelling and pain. Doctors recommend patients to do the RICE Therapy which is Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation for the first 24 to 48 hours.

Treatment

People can do many things to reduce the risk of sprains and strains like:- Avoid excercising or playing sports when tired or in pain.- Maintain healthy to keep muscles strong.- Prevent falls.- Stretch out before doing a sport.- Be in proper physical condition to play a sport. - Wear shoes that fit you properly.

Prevention

Muscles, tendons or ligaments are weak so you start limping.

Pathophysiology