Sprains & Strains

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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

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.
 
 

Aham Onyike, MD

Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Aham Onyike specializes in joint replacement surgery of the hip and knee – and is widely known for his excellence as a “Patient’s Choice” physician in these areas. His other areas of expertise include general orthopedics, fracture care, work-related injuries, and sports medicine and athletic injuries. He subsequently obtained his medical degree at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark in 1999. He completed his residency at Howard University Hospital in Washington, D.C., where he was awarded the title of Resident of the Year in his final year. He completed his fellowship training in adult reconstruction at Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Onyike received his board certification in orthopedic surgery by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. He has been practicing in US for almost two decades.