Sprains & Strains

Sprains & Strains

In contrast to pulled muscles (strains), sprains involve the tearing or traumatic injury of ligaments.

Sprains and strains are common injuries to the musculoskeletal system. Although these two words are often used interchangeably, they are different types of injuries.A sprain is an injury involving the stretching or tearing of a ligament (tissue that connects bone to bone) or a joint capsule, which help provide joint stability.Strains are injuries that involve the stretching or tearing of a musculo-tendinous (muscle and tendon) structure.These strains take place when a muscle is stretched and suddenly contracts, as with running or jumping. This type of injury is frequently seen in runners who strain their hamstrings. Many times the injury will occur suddenly while the runner is in full stride. Symptoms for an acute muscle strain may include pain, muscle spasm, loss of strength, and limited range of motion.Chronic (long-lasting) strains are injuries that gradually build up from overuse or repetitive stress, resulting in tendinitis (inflammation of a tendon). For example, a tennis player may get tendinitis in his or her shoulder as the result of constant stress from repeated serves.

 These are strong, fibrous structures surround-ing the many joints. Common areas where sprains occur are the knees, ankles,and wrists, though almost any joint can be affected. The typical “whiplash”injury of a rear-end automobile collision is also a ligamentous sprain. In reality, the entire spine is vulnerable to this type of injury.

The general characteristics of a sprain are as follows: there is acute pain,localized in the involved joint. Swelling follows, particularly if further ambulation or joint motion is continued, and the area is often held in a dependent position. When blood vessels are torn, bruising becomes apparent within hours, frequently turning the affected joint “black and blue.” There are several important first aid measures to be used in suspected sprains. These include the immediate immobilization of the extremity, its elevation, and the application of ice packs. All of these remedies reduce the amount of swelling and pain. They also help to control bleeding within the joint.

Pain in any joint is a message from “nature” to rest the injured member.For sprained ankles, wrists, or knees, elastic bandages, crutches, and occasionally plaster casting is used for immobilization during the healing phase. Hot and cold contrast treatments, used after the first 12 to 24 hours,aid in the resolution of these inflammatory changes. They also accelerate healing and reduce pain. Unusual persistence of pain in the involved area should alert one to the possibility of fracture, which is best diagnosed with an x-ray.Rest, application of ice and keeping the sprained joint in an elevated position will also help in minimizing pain.

Prevention tips developed by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons to help reduce your injury risk:

1. Participate in a conditioning program to build muscle strength
2. Do stretching exercises daily
3. Always wear properly fitting shoes
4. Nourish your muscles by eating a well-balanced diet
5. Warm up before any sports activity, including practice
6. Use or wear protective equipment appropriate for that sport