Sprains & Strains

Description

Sprains and strains are similar injuries to different body parts. A sprain is an injury to a ligament, which attaches bone to bone, and a strain is an injury to a muscle or a tendon, which attaches muscle to bone. The most common location for these injuries is the ankles, but occur in other places such as knees, elbows, and fingers and toes.

These injuries happen with increased activity, typically from running, jumping, landing, or pivoting incorrectly. Symptoms include pain, swelling, limited mobility of the injured joint, and a “pop” may be heard at the time of injury.

Treatment

Treatment can usually be completed at home with R.I.C.E – rest, ice, compress, and elevate. An anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen can help with swelling for children greater than 6 months of age. If you are unable to bear weight on the affected joint, you should consult your doctor.