Sprains

A sprain is an injury to one or more ligaments in a joint. Ligaments are tissues that connect bones and provide stability and flexibility to joints. Sprains occur when these ligaments are stretched beyond their normal capacity, often due to sudden excessive force or twisting.

Sprains occur when a joint is forced to move into an unnatural position. For example, “twisting” one’s ankle causes a ligament sprain around the ankle. Sprains typically occur during activities that involve quick changes in direction or speed, like running, jumping or playing sports.

To help prevent sprains, it is important to warm up and stretch before engaging in any physical activity, maintain good posture and wear appropriate footwear for the activity.

Individuals with a history of sprains have an increased risk of reinjuring the ligaments, especially if they did not completely heal following the original injury. The following are also risk factors for experiencing a sprain:

• Participation in certain sports that may put ligaments and tendons in unnatural positions
• Walking on uneven surfaces
• Poor physical condition and being overweight
• Inadequate or ill-fitting footwear
• Fatigue of muscles and ligaments
• Weakness in muscles
• Poor balance and proprioception deficits

The following steps may lower your risk for a sprain:

• Wear protective footwear during activities that place stress on your ankle and other joints.
• Make sure that shoes fit properly.
• Avoid high-heeled shoes.
• Always warm up and stretch before doing exercise and sports.
• Avoid sports and activities you have not trained in, gradually increasing intensity over time. Don’t push through pain!
• Engage in strength training to help stabilize joints. 
• Improve flexibility.
• Stay aware of your environment and surroundings, especially when walking on uneven surfaces.

The most common symptom of a sprain is pain, which can range from mild to severe depending on the severity of the injury. Other symptoms may include swelling, bruising, reduced range of motion in the joint and weakness or instability.

Symptoms of a sprain include:

• Joint or muscle pain
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Discoloration of the skin, especially bruising

Sprains are diagnosed primarily through physical examination by a medical professional. Your doctor may recommend X-rays to rule out the possibility of a bone fracture. Additional tests, such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or ultrasound, may be ordered if your doctor feels additional cause for concern.

Following an injury that you suspect is a sprain, here are some immediate first-aid steps for care:

• Apply ice immediately to reduce swelling. Wrap the ice in a cloth. Do not place ice directly on the skin.
• Wrap a bandage around the affected area to limit movement. Wrap firmly, but not tightly. Use a splint if needed.
• Keep the swollen joint raised above your heart, even while sleeping.
• Rest the affected joint for several days.
• Avoid putting stress on the joint because it can make the injury worse. A sling for the arm, crutches or a brace for the leg can protect the injury.
• Aspirin, ibuprofen or other pain relievers can help. 
• Keep pressure off the injured area until the pain goes away. 

Most of the time, a mild sprain will heal in seven to 10 days, though it may take several weeks for the pain to go away after a bad sprain. Your healthcare provider may recommend crutches or physical therapy to help you regain motion and strength in the injured area. Our team of experts may also recommend an appropriate home exercise program.

Avoid putting stress on the joint, as it can make the injury worse. For mild sprains, at-home care is usually sufficient. Use ice packs regularly to reduce swelling and a bandage to limit movement and keep the joint elevated.