Sprains and Strains
Sprains and Strains Symptoms
It’s possible for some sprains and strains to develop during the same injury process. Signs and symptoms vary, depending on the severity of your injury. Common ones include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising or redness
- Decreased range of motion
With a sprain, you may also hear a popping sound in your joint upon injury. With a strain, you’re likely to experience muscle spasms, but a pop may be felt as well.
Sprains and Strains Risk Factors
People at higher risk for sprains and strains are those who:
- Are athletes
- Have had sprains and strains before
- Are overweight
- Are starting a physical activity or exercise program for the first time
- Have balance disorders (prone to falling)
To reduce your risk of sprains and strains, stretch daily, warm up before exercising, wear properly fitting shoes and maintain a healthy body weight.
Sprains and Strains Treatment
A common treatment for both sprains and strains includes rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE). While most mild sprains and strains can be treated at home, severe ones may require surgery to repair torn ligaments, muscles or tendons.
If you have any concerns about the seriousness of a sprain or strain, contact an orthopedic specialist at Summa Health. This is important because if you try to return to daily activities or sports too soon, you risk injuring the area again.
Meet the Orthopedic Sports Medicine Team
The Summa Health Sports Medicine team is made up of primary care specialists and fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeons who treat people of all ages and fitness levels. Our staff also serves as team physicians for area high schools and the Akron RubberDucks, as well as provides medical coverage for the Akron Marathon Race Series.