Sprain
Description
An over-stretched or torn ligament. Any joint may be involved, but sprains are most common in the ankles, knees or fingers. Sprained joints have normal function except for decrease movement secondary to pain. Sprains cause pain, swelling and bruising of the affected joint. A strain is a stretched or torn muscle.
Symptoms
Pain, swelling, tenderness.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. A X-ray may be done to rule out a bony injury. A MRI is needed to identify the specific ligament injury and to determine the severity of the damage.
- X-Ray
- MRI
Treatment
Most sprains require only a brief period of immobilization. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn) and pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be prescribed. More significant injuries may benefit from physical therapy.
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- Family Practice
- Internal Medicine
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Sports Medicine
- Pediatrics
- Podiatry
- Sports Medicine
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