Sprains, Strains, and Tears

Sprains, strains, and tears are common problems that may affect any joint area. They are usually the result of wrenching and twisting forces or a traumatic blow to the joint. Most often, the injury only involves soft tissue -- the ligaments, tendons, muscles, and the cartilage.

Sprains involve injury to one or more of the ligaments being "pulled" beyond their normal elastic limits. Sprained ligaments are among the most common injuries associated with sports. The signs and symptoms of a sprain include a sensation of a "pop" within the joint upon impact, a lack of stability when you try to use the joint, pain, swelling, and reduced mobility of the joint. Similar symptoms are experienced when there is a tear or rupture of a ligament, tendon or cartilage, and the joint may produce a "clicking" sound during movement. In some cases, the joint "locks," and mobility of the joint is reduced.

The initial treatment of a sprain, strain or tear is rest, letting the pain be the guide to activities. Ice is used for 48 hours followed by heat, stretching exercises, and then ice. Ice massages seem to be particularly helpful. Stretching exercises should be initiated as soon as the initial tenderness diminishes, usually within 24-48 hours. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines help reduce the pain, tenderness, and swelling. The torn muscle tends to heal with scar tissue so it is important that the stretching exercises are done daily to preserve the length of the muscle and to prevent the scar tissue from contracting.

It is important to seek medical advice anytime a significant injury occurs. Considerable pain, swelling, or bruising, is usually an indication of a more serious injury. Although many injuries may seem insignificant at first, they should all be treated with respect.