1

SPRAINS AND
STRAINS
INTRODUCTION 2

 Sprain
 A Sprain is a stretch or tear of a ligament (band of fibrous tissue that connects two or more bones at a joint);
stretched too far from normal position.
 Most common: Ankle Sprain
 Types of Sprain:
 Grade I
 Grade II
 Grade III.
 Strain
 A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon(thick, tough fibrous cord of tissue that connects a muscle to a bone).
 Most common: Back Strain
 Types of Strain:
 Grade I (Mild)
 Grade II (Moderate)
 Grade III (Severe)
CAUSES 3

 They are caused by excessive reaching, bending, lifting, gripping, squatting, or

twisting of hands, shoulders or body.
 Caused by any work performed with high force, with many repetitions, or in
awkward position.
 They occur by working in a fixed position with the back bent, sitting or standing
continuously, or driving vehicles for long periods.
 Symptoms will vary, depending on the severity of injury which includes:
• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
TREATMENT 4

 FIRST STAGE – To reduce swelling and pain

o RICE Therapy (Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate) for the first 24 to 48 hours.
 Health care provider may recommend an anti-inflammatory drug such as aspirin,
ibuprofen, naproxen sodium to help decrease pain and inflammation.
 If moderate sprain, may require use of mobility aids, such as a cane, crutches, a
walker or wheelchair.
 If severe sprain, may need surgery to repair torn ligaments, muscles or tendons.
TREATMENT 5

 SECOND STAGE – Rehabilitation

1. Physical therapy/exercise program: designed to help reduce swelling, prevent
stiffness and restore normal, pain-free range of motion.
2. Increase strength and flexibility, usually more demanding exercise to improve
function.
3. Advance Stretching: Return to full daily activities, including sports if appropriate.
Must work closely with physical therapist to avoid re-injury.
How Can We Prevent This? 6

 Although we cannot prevent all strains and sprains from occurring there are some
tips on how to avoid them:
 Stretch before you workout or lift heavy items.
 Use proper footwear for the activity you are doing.
 Warm up adequately before activities.
 Do not run on icy/uneven surfaces.
 Ask your doctor about appropriate condition and stability exercises.
 Try to be in your shape to play your sport; don‘t play your sport to get in shape.
SUMMARY 7

 Sprains and strains are classified as musculo-skeletal disorders.

 Many causes of sprains and strains include carrying, pushing, lifting,
pulling, doing repetitive tasks, or working in awkward positions.
 Treat by using RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).
 Sprains and strains can be prevented by stretching, wearing proper
footwear, using caution while walking.