Overview

Ligaments, the strong bands of fibrous tissue joining two bones in joints, are stretched or torn during sprains and strains. Your ankle region is the most typical location. RICE, or rest, ice, compression, and elevation, will be the initial therapies. Mild sprains and strains can be treated at home, but severe sprains require surgery to restore torn ligaments.

Now, the distinction between sprains and strains is that the bands of tissue that bind two bones together will be injured in a sprain. Contrarily, a strain will harm the muscle or band of tissue that connects a muscle to the bone.

Symptoms

Now, the symptoms and signs of sprains and strains will vary quite a lot. These points solely depend on the severity of the said injury. So, make sure to look for these symptoms, as mentioned below, just to be on the safer side.

• Pain
• Bruising
• Swelling
• Limited ability to move your affected part or joint
• Feeling or hearing a pop within your joint during the time of injury

If non-invasive treatments can help you get back on your feet, then receiving physiotherapy can be quite beneficial. Surgery is the only way to restore your mobility in such serious circumstances as a fracture. On the other hand, before beginning the real physiotherapy, a patient may be advised to take medications like painkillers to reduce their discomfort.

Causes

A sprain might take place when you over-extend or tear any ligament and also stressing the joint severely. There are some circumstances where you might be suffering from strains and sprains. But first, ask experts to learn what is sprain and strain and then go for the desired treatments. Some of the causes are:

• Knee:

It might be pivoting during any athletic activity

• Ankle:

Exercising or walking on an uneven surface and also landing in an awkward manner from a jump.

• Wrist:

Landing on an outstretched hand during any unwanted fall.

• Thumb:

Overextension or Skiing injury while playing racquet sports such as tennis, badminton, and more.

Children are known to have softer tissue areas, also known as growth plates. These tissues are located towards the end of the bones. The ligaments around the joint remain a lot stronger when compared to the growth plates. So, the chances are high that the children are likely to experience a fracture than a sprain. So, keeping an eye on them while they are playing is a good call from parent’s sides.

When to See Physiotherapist

It is true that minor sprains can be treated at home. However, more severe wounds like fractures require medical guidance. If you experience any of the following conditions, you must see a doctor immediately:

• You fail to move or bear the weight on the affected joint

• There are times when you feel the pain directly over the bones of an injured joint
• You might feel some numbness in any portion of the injured area as well

Risks

Some of the factors, which might contribute to sprain and strain, are listed below for your reference:

• Fatigue:

Tired muscles fail to offer that good support for the joint areas. So, when you are super tired, you are more likely to succumb to the forces, which might stress a joint.

• Environmental conditions:

Uneven or slippery surfaces might make you way more prone to injury, and you better be careful while crossing those surface regions.

• Poor use of equipment:

Poorly maintained footwear or ill-fitted shoes, or any other sporting equipment will contribute to your risk of getting a strain or sprain.

How to Prevent

There are some straightforward actions that can aid in preventing strain and tension. The complete physical conditioning programme must include regular stretching and strengthening exercises for fitness, job, or sports activities. You can reduce your risk of suffering a sprain or strain by taking these precautions. Never merely play your sport to get in shape; always be in form to play it. Regular conditioning will assist you in preventing injuries if you have a physically demanding profession.

By working to strengthen and condition the muscles surrounding the joint areas, it is now possible to protect joints for an extended period of time. Braces for muscles are crucial. You should see your doctor for the appropriate stability and conditioning workouts. Conversely, wear shoes that will provide you with the best possible support and protection.

Treatments

It is vital to follow the RICE protocol for strains and sprains to reduce swelling or redness and relieving pressure on the affected area.

• Rest:

Stop physical activities or exercises and avoid putting weight on the affected limb.

• Ice:

Apply the ice on the injury immediately for around 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours. Sometimes, a bag of frozen vegetables can work as well.

• Compression:

For reducing swelling, wrap the area with a trainer’s tape or bandage.

• Elevation: