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Sprains

Joint sprain

 

A sprain is an injury to the ligaments around a joint. Ligaments are strong, flexible fibers that hold bones together. When a ligament is stretched too far or tears, the joint will become painful and swell.

Causes

 

Sprains are caused when a joint is forced to move into an unnatural position. For example, "twisting" one's ankle causes a sprain to the ligaments around the ankle.

 

Symptoms

 

Symptoms of a sprain include:

  • Joint pain or muscle pain
  • Swelling
  • Joint stiffness
  • Discoloration of the skin, especially bruising

 

First Aid

 

First aid steps include:

  • Apply ice right away to reduce swelling. Wrap the ice in cloth. Do not place ice directly on the skin.
  • Wrap a bandage around the affected area to limit movement. Wrap firmly, but not tightly. Use a splint if needed.
  • Keep the swollen joint raised above your heart, even while sleeping.
  • Rest the affected joint for several days.
  • Avoid putting stress on the joint because it can make the injury worse. A sling for the arm, or crutches or a brace for the leg can protect the injury.

Aspirin, ibuprofen, or other pain relievers can help. DO NOT give aspirin to children.

Keep pressure off the injured area until the pain goes away. Most of the time, a mild sprain will heal in 7 to 10 days. It may take several weeks for pain to go away after a bad sprain. Your health care provider may recommend crutches. Physical therapy can help you regain motion and strength of the injured area.

 

When to Contact a Medical Professional

 

Go to the hospital right away or call 911 if:

  • You think you have a broken bone .
  • The joint appears out of position.
  • You have a serious injury or severe pain.
  • You hear a popping sound and have immediate problems using the joint.

Call your provider if:

  • Swelling does not start to go away within 2 days.
  • You have symptoms of infection, including red, warm, painful skin or a fever over 100°F (38°C).
  • The pain does not go away after several weeks.

 

Prevention

 

The following steps may lower your risk of a sprain:

  • Wear protective footwear during activities that place stress on your ankle and other joints.
  • Make sure that shoes fit your feet properly.
  • Avoid high-heeled shoes.
  • Always warm-up and stretch before doing exercise and sports.
  • Avoid sports and activities for which you have not trained.

 

 

Open References

References

Biundo JJ. Bursitis, tendinitis, and other periarticular disorders and sports medicine. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman's Cecil Medicine . 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 271.

Nakamura N, Rodeo SA, Alini M, Maher S, et al. Physiology and pathophysiology of musculoskeletal tissues. In: Miller MD, Thompson SR, eds. DeLee and Drez's Orthopaedic Sports Medicine . 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2015:chap 1.

 
  • Early treatment of injury

    Early treatment of injury - illustration

    Minor injuries like sprains may be treated at home if broken bones are not suspected. The acronym RICE is helpful in remembering how to treat minor injuries: "R" stands for rest, "I" is for ice, "C" is for compression, and "E" is for elevation. Pain and swelling should decrease within 48 hours, and gentle movement may be beneficial, but pressure should not be put on a sprained joint until pain is completely gone (one to several weeks).

    Early treatment of injury

    illustration

  • Ankle sprain - series

    Ankle sprain - series

    Presentation

    •  
    • Early treatment of injury

      Early treatment of injury - illustration

      Minor injuries like sprains may be treated at home if broken bones are not suspected. The acronym RICE is helpful in remembering how to treat minor injuries: "R" stands for rest, "I" is for ice, "C" is for compression, and "E" is for elevation. Pain and swelling should decrease within 48 hours, and gentle movement may be beneficial, but pressure should not be put on a sprained joint until pain is completely gone (one to several weeks).

      Early treatment of injury

      illustration

    •   Ankle sprain - series

      Ankle sprain - series

      Presentation

      •  

    Self Care

     
       

      Review Date: 5/9/2015

      Reviewed By: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

      The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

       
       
       

       

       

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