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Sprains & Strains

  • Introduction
  • Anatomy
  • Causes
  • Symptoms
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Am I at Risk
  • Complications

Introduction

Sprains and strains are common injuries that can happen to anyone, but occur most frequently in people who participate in sports, perform repetitive activities, or are at-risk for falls.  Sprains involve the tissues that connect bones together (ligaments).  Strains involve a different group of tissues, muscles and the tendons that connect muscles to bones.  Mild sprains and strains can heal with rest and home care.  Significant sprains and strains may require rehabilitation, surgery, or both.
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Anatomy

Your skeleton is made up of bones of all sizes and shapes.  Some bones form joints that allow movement.  Muscles are strong bands of tissue that contract and relax to move bones.  Muscles are attached to bones by tendons, a fibrous tissue.  Some bones in the body are connected together by ligaments, strong tissues that provide stability and support. 
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Causes

Sprain
A sprain describes an injury to a ligament that connects two bones.  A ligament can stretch or tear if the bones in a joint move out of position from a force, such as a fall or direct contact with another person during sports.  For example, an ankle or wrist sprain can result from a fall.

Strain
A strain describes an injury to a muscle or tendon.  Muscles and tendons can be injured from overuse, overstretching, repetitive motions, sports injury, or a direct force, such as from being hit.  For example, back strain may occur in people who perform repetitive heavy lifting.
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Symptoms

Sprains
A sprain causes pain, bruising, and swelling.  You may hear or feel a pop when the injury occurs.  A severe sprain causes intense pain at the time of injury, followed by difficulty moving a joint.
 
Strains
A strain causes muscle pain, weakness, cramping, spasm, or swelling.  Moderate to severe sprains can result in muscle tearing.
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Diagnosis

A doctor can diagnose a sprain or strain by physical examination.  Your doctor will ask you to move your joint and test your muscle strength.  X-rays may be taken if a fracture is suspected. 
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Treatment

Immediately following your  injury, you should elevate your joint and apply cold packs to prevent swelling.  Your doctor will formulate a treatment plan based on the severity and degree of your injury.  Mild sprains and strains may benefit from physical or occupational therapy following injury.  More significant sprains and strains may require surgery or immobilization with a brace or splint for healing.
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Am I at Risk

You may be at risk for strains and strains if:
• Your body is deconditioned or overweight
• You participate in sports, dance, or other challenging physical activities
• Your job duties entail repetitive movements
• You have experienced a strain or sprain before
• You are at-risk for falls

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Complications

Sprains and strains may be prevented by exercising and eating wisely to keep your body fit and healthy.  You can help prevent sprains and strains by warming up and cooling down, respectively, before and after exercising.  Be sure to wear the proper shoes and safety equipment for the sports or job duties in which you participate.  Older adults should discuss fall-risk prevention with their doctors.
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This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.

The iHealthSpot patient education library was written collaboratively by the iHealthSpot editorial team which includes Senior Medical Authors Dr. Mary Car-Blanchard, OTD/OTR/L and Valerie K. Clark, and the following editorial advisors: Steve Meadows, MD, Ernie F. Soto, DDS, Ronald J. Glatzer, MD, Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, Christopher M. Nolte, MD, David Applebaum, MD, Jonathan M. Tarrash, MD, and Paula Soto, RN/BSN. This content complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. The library commenced development on September 1, 2005 with the latest update/addition on February 16, 2022. For information on iHealthSpot’s other services including medical website design, visit www.iHealthSpot.com.

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"Dr. Greenberg is an excellent medical person with great knowledge and understanding of the people he is treating. What a pleasure!”

-Port Charlotte office patient

"Dr. Connors is a great doctor and surgeon. He makes you feel like you are special and can ask him anything."

-Port Charlotte patient

"Dr. Stchur is terrific!! He answers all your questions and listens to your concerns. His office is extremely efficient so getting an appointment is not an issue. I would highly recommend him!"

"He is knowledgeable, patient, caring and professional. Dr. Gebauer listens to his patients and takes the time to explain things. I give him an A++++!"

-Madelene S.

"Best experience I’ve had at a Dr’s office. Very knowledgeable and explains everything to you until you understand what’s happening."

-Port Charlotte patient

"Best ever…Suffered for a long time. Dr. James knew just what to do. Has me walking again. Thank you, Dr. James!"

-Port Charlotte patient

"Dr. Mlnarik is an absolute genius and closest to perfect doctor/surgeon that a patient could ever need!! His skills are second to no body and his bedside manner is extremely good."

-Port Charlotte patient

"Excellent Doc. Gave me several options for treatment after I get an MRI. Did not feel pressured at all. I appreciate him accepting my opinions. So glad he is now part of Advanced Orthopedics!"

"I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Spence and his staff, from the moment I walked in I felt very comfortable, they were all very professional, prompt and very kind. I would highly recommend Dr. Spence!"

-Punta Gorda patient

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Testimonials

"Excellent Doc. Gave me several options for treatment after I get an MRI. Did not feel pressured at all. I appreciate him accepting my opinions. So glad he is now part of Advanced Orthopedics!"

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1641 Tamiami Trail, Suite 1
Port Charlotte, FL 33948

350 Mary Street
Punta Gorda, FL 33950

Winner - Best of Charlotte 2020
Finalist - Best of Charlotte 2021

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At Advanced Orthopedic Center, we offer diagnostic services & treatment for orthopedic Service - General Orthopedic, Sports Medicine, Total Joint Replacement Surgery, Spine Surgery, Hand & Upper extremity Treatment, Foot & Ankle , Trauma & Interventional Pain Management.