Sprains and Strains

Sprains

Sprains are stretched or torn ligaments. Ligaments connect bone to bone and bone to cartilage, and help hold joints together. Any joint can be sprained, but sprains occur most commonly at the ankle, knee, finger, or wrist. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and bruising.

What to Do

Treat with the RICE method for at least 72 hours, or until swelling begins to decrease. Self-care is usually sufficient to treat a mild sprain. However, more severe sprains may require that a health care provider apply a cast or a splint to the joint.

Strains

A strain is also known as a pulled muscle or muscle tear, and is caused by forcing a muscle past its normal range of motion. Strains most often occur in the middle of the muscle. Symptoms include pain, swelling, muscle spasm, and limited movement.

What to Do

In most cases, you can successfully treat a strained muscle by icing and massaging it and gently stretching it 3 to 5 times a day. However, if a muscle is severely torn, it may need to be repaired surgically.