Strains and sprains

DEFINITION

Sprains and strains are common injuries that share similar signs and symptoms, but involve different parts of your body. A sprain is a stretching or tearing of ligaments, while a strain is a stretching or tearing of muscle or tendon.

SYMPTOMS

• Sprains: Pain, swelling, bruising, limited ability to move the affected joint, "pop" sensation during injury.
• Strains: Pain, swelling, muscle spasms, limited ability to move the affected muscle.

CAUSES

• Sprains: Overextension or tearing of ligaments during stress on a joint.
• Strains: Acute strains from sudden stretching or tearing of muscles, chronic strains from repetitive movement.

RISK FACTORS

• Poor conditioning, fatigue, improper warm-up, environmental conditions, poor equipment.

PREPARING FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

Write down detailed symptoms, medical history, medications/supplements taken, and questions for the doctor. Expect questions about the injury and previous similar incidents.

TESTS AND DIAGNOSIS

Physical exam to check for swelling and tenderness. X-rays to rule out fractures and MRI for further diagnosis.

TREATMENTS AND DRUGS

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Therapy: Ice application for mild cases, immobilization for severe cases.
• Surgery: In cases of torn ligaments or ruptured muscles.

LIFESTYLE AND HOME REMEDIES

Regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help prevent future injuries. Strengthening muscles around the injured joint is crucial. Proper footwear and conditioning are essential for protection.

QUESTIONS

1. What are sprains and strains?

Sprains involve ligaments while strains involve muscles or tendons.

2. What are the symptoms of sprains?

Pain, swelling, bruising, limited joint movement.

3. When should you see a doctor for sprains?

If you can't walk without significant pain or have numbness in the injured area.

4. What causes sprains?

Overextension or tearing of ligaments during joint stress.

5. How can you prepare for a medical appointment for sprains?

Write down symptoms, medical history, medications taken, and questions for the doctor.

6. What tests may be done to diagnose sprains?

Physical exam, X-rays to rule out fractures, MRI for further evaluation.

7. What treatments are available for sprains?

Medications, therapy (ice application), immobilization in severe cases, surgery if needed.

8. How can you reduce the risk of sprains and strains?

Regular stretching and strengthening exercises, proper conditioning and footwear.

9. What are the risk factors for sprains and strains?

Poor conditioning, fatigue, improper warm-up, environmental conditions, poor equipment.

10. Why is strengthening muscles around the injured joint important?

To provide support and protection to prevent future injuries.