Sprains/Strains

Applies to: Back, Elbow/Hand/Wrist, Foot/Ankle, Hip, Knee, Neck, Shoulder

Sprains/Strains

A sprain is one of the more prevalent injuries causing pain, where the ligaments connecting two bones stretch and tear. This can result in pain, swelling, and bruising and affect the area’s normal use. Ankle sprains are particularly common examples of this type of injury.

Unless the sprains are severe enough to require surgery, you can usually manage them at home using the RICE method, which stands for ‘rest, ice, compression, and elevation.’

On the other hand, a strain is sometimes mistaken for a sprain. The key difference is that a strain is an injury to the muscle or tendon connected to the bone. People experiencing a strain may feel pain, sharp sensations, bruising, or weakness. Most home treatments for strains are similar to those for sprains, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended for pain relief.