Sprain and strain are common types of injury that you can experience especially when you are an active person or when you love to engage in sports. This type of injury could be in a sudden onset and may get worse gradually.
Ligaments are tissues that connect the bones into a joint. When you suffer from falling or twisting injury, it may lead to a stretched or torn ligament that is called a sprain. On the other hand, tendons are tissues that connect muscles to bone. An injury to the tendon is called as strain.
When muscle sprain or strain occurs, it can be mild, moderate, or severe. The associated symptoms are bruising, inflammation, pain, swelling, muscle spasm, and weakness. The recovery from muscle sprain or strain may last for a week or more depending on the treatment options and on how your body will respond towards it.
You at risk when your muscles lack conditioning, you have improper body mechanics, use of poor footwear or sports equipment, and when you overuse your muscles.
Immediately or few days from the injury, use R.I.C.E to treat the injury with no cost. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. This will help to alleviate the pain, swelling, and inflammation.
- Rest – It is necessary to rest the affected area and avoid using it as much as possible.
- Ice – Purchase or make a homemade cold pack and apply it to the injured site for 15 to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours.
- Compression – Have bandages, splints, casts, or boots. Compress the affected area for support.
- Elevation – Elevate or put the injured area on a pillow or rest it above your heart.
You can utilize these simple remedies as a treatment option. However, it is always best to consult a physician initially or when symptoms still persist.
