A sprain is an injury to a ligament, the tissue connecting bones at a joint. It happens when a ligament is stretched or torn due to a sudden twist or fall. Sprains occur most commonly in the ankle but can also affect the wrists, knees, and other joints.
Sprains are often confused with other injuries, such as strains, fractures, and dislocations. Here's how to tell them apart:
Symptoms of a sprain can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Common general symptoms include:
Some of the most common sprains are sprained ankle, sprained knee, and a sprained wrist.Take a look at the more detailed symptoms below.
Pain: Especially when bearing weight on the affected foot.
Swelling: Typically around the ankle joint.
Bruising: Discoloration might appear around the affected area.
Tenderness: The ankle might feel sore to the touch.
Instability: A feeling that the ankle might give out.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the ankle in a normal range.
Pain: Often felt around the knee joint.
Swelling: Noticeable around the knee.
Bruising: Discoloration around the affected area.
Tenderness: The knee may be sensitive to touch.
Instability: The knee might feel unstable or give way.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee.
Pain: Especially when moving the wrist or grasping objects.
Swelling: Around the wrist joint.
Bruising: Discoloration may appear.
Tenderness: The wrist may be sore to the touch.
Weakness: Reduced strength in the wrist and hand.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the wrist normally.
These symptoms are indicative of a sprain, which involves the overstretching or tearing of ligaments. If you experience these symptoms, it's important to seek appropriate medical evaluation and treatment.
Caring for a sprain properly can speed up recovery and prevent further injury. Here are some general steps to follow:
Rest: Avoid putting weight on the ankle; use crutches if necessary.
Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours.
Compression: Use an elastic bandage to compress the ankle and minimize swelling.
Elevation: Keep the ankle raised above heart level to reduce swelling.
Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
Physical Therapy: Exercises to restore range of motion, strength, and stability.
Brace or Support: Wearing a brace or support to stabilize the ankle during healing.
Rest: Avoid activities that put stress on the knee; use crutches if necessary.
Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours.
Compression: Use an elastic bandage or knee sleeve to compress the knee and minimize swelling.
Elevation: Keep the knee raised above heart level to reduce swelling.
Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
Physical Therapy: Exercises to restore range of motion, strength, and stability.
Knee Brace: Wearing a knee brace or support to stabilize the knee during healing.
Rest: Avoid using the wrist for activities that cause pain.
Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours.
Compression: Use an elastic bandage or wrist brace to compress the wrist and minimize swelling.
Elevation: Keep the wrist raised above heart level to reduce swelling.
Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
Physical Therapy: Exercises to restore range of motion, strength, and stability.
Wrist Brace or Splint: Wearing a brace or splint to immobilize and protect the wrist during healing.
Whether you're seeking sprained ankle treatment or a knee or wrist, for all types of sprains, it is important to seek medical advice if symptoms do not improve with initial treatment or if you are experiencing severe pain or significant instability.
While most sprains can be treated at home, you should see a doctor if:
Seeing an orthopaedic specialist for your sprain will help you get the best, personalized treatment plan for your injury. When rest, icing, and elevation aren't enough, an orthopaedic specialist can help by prescribing physical therapy or fitting you with the proper brace or splint.
To reduce your risk of sprains, consider the following tips:
Understanding what a sprain is and how to properly care for it is essential for a quick recovery. By following the recommended steps and knowing when to seek medical attention, you can manage a sprain effectively and get back to your normal activities sooner.
If you experience chronic pain or swelling in your ankles, puffy ankles, or swollen feet, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists. If you are experiencing this post-surgery, please reach out immediately. With six divisions spanning from northern NJ to southern, there's always an ONJ nearby to help you navigate your recovery process and achieve optimal health.
Contact one of our ONJ divisions to schedule an appointment.
This blog is intended for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't hesitate to get in touch with one of our divisions for a medical evaluation.