While the terms sprains and strains are often interchanged to describe a variety of ailments ranging from a twisted ankle to a pulled leg muscle, each word describes a different injury. A sprain occurs from stretching or tearing a ligament. A strain involves stretching or tearing a muscle or a tendon.
Sprain and Strain Symptoms
The most common signs of a sprain or strain include pain and inflammation at the site. Sometimes bruising may appear. The degree of pain experienced varies with the severity of the injury and may range from mild to severe. Sprains are typically graded on a I to III scale.
* Grade I-Mild stretching or tearing of a ligament
* Grade II-More serious injury but not a complete tear
* Grade III-The ligament is completely torn or ruptured. Applying weight or pressure to the affected joint brings severe pain and immobility.
If the symptoms do not begin resolving within one to three days, the injury should be evaluated by a physician. If the individual cannot bear weight on the affected joint immediately after the injury occurs or mild symptoms worsen, the injury should also be assessed.
In most instances, mild sprains or strains are effectively treated without medical intervention using the RICE care method:
Rest
Do not put pressure or weight on the affected area for the first one or two days following injury to avoid causing further damage.
Ice
Apply ice to the injured region for 10 minute increments. Remove the ice for 20 to 30 minutes then reapply. Use this approach for up to three days. Leaving the ice in place too long will cause tissue damage. For this reason, you should never apply ice directly to the skin. Wrap the cold device in a towel or apply over a bandage.
Compression
Wrap the injured area with an elastic bandage or compression sleeve. However, when using an elastic bandage, take care not to wrap the affected area too tightly. The idea is to compress the injury and discourage swelling.
Elevation
In most cases the injury can be easily elevated using a pillow. Try keeping the affected area higher than heart level. This action prevents fluid from accumulating in the injury and increasing swelling.
Unless otherwise directed by a physician, most people may take an OTC pain medication as directed to ease the discomfort.
Once the symptoms subside, decrease the steps of RICE therapy. Slowly begin using the moving and using the injured area. Initially, ice and compression may need to be reapplied at the end of the day.
Information from Worthington Podiatric Associates was used in this article.