Sprain – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Sprain – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Sportspersons are found more likely to be involved in injuring their ligament. This does not limit the orthopedic injury to only those who are involved in sports. Rather, anyone can experience sprain as it is a very common injury to ligaments.
A ligament is basically a fiber-like band of tissue that plays an important part in connecting bones at a joint. When the ligament of the body suffers excessive stretching, it tends to tear down, which causes a sprain. As it is connected to joints, sprains are mainly localized around the very common joint parts of the body like knees, ankles and shoulders.
Some common symptoms of sprain
Sprain can be felt the moment the injury takes place. However, there are symptoms to look for, to decide whether it’s actually sprain.
· Bruising
· Pain
· Swelling
· Difficulty in the movement of a limb
· Crackling sound (in severe / rupture cases)
When to see the doctor?
Sprains are classified into three parts on the basis of their severity. Many orthopedic surgeons divide sprain as:
Grade 1 Sprain: A mild damage or stretching of the ligament is classified as grade 1 sprain. It requires nothing more than some time, enough rest and just a little care.
Grade 2 Sprain: In case the ligament faces partial tearing, then it falls under grade 2 sprain. The PRICE procedure (discussed later) helps a lot in its treatment.
Grade 3 Sprain: This is a severe situation that involves cases with complete tearing of the ligament. Such cases cannot be treated without medication or doctor. The situation might demand surgery as well.
Not only in grade 3, but you should consult the doctor in case the pain is unbearable, and you want to be safe on your side. This would give you the right treatment at the right time.
Treatment options for sprain
P.R.I.C.E procedure is the most effective treatment for sprain that can be easily performed at home just with a little care.
· Protection: The area becomes extremely sensitive after the injury and thus, needs extra protection to avoid any further injury or repetitive injuries.
· Rest: Allow the sprained area to be at rest as much as possible. Minimize the movement of the area and avoid any kind of additional force on it so that it gets enough rest.
· Ice: Ice works wonders in case of pain and swelling. The moment you realize that your ligament has been injured, apply ice packs on the affected area. Repeat the process for the whole day for at least five times, for 10 mins at once.
· Compression: Sprained area needs support, and thus, you should opt for dressing, ace wraps or bandages. Although enough pressure should be applied while dressing yet make sure the pressure isn’t too much to block the circulation of the limb.
· Elevation: Use cushions or soft pillows to keep the sprained joint elevated. This will avoid any kind of extra force on the joint.
If you’re into sports, play safe and look for proper protection from such injuries!
