2960 North State Rd. 7 | Suite 204 | Margate, FL 33063

Legal Statement | Sitemap | HIPAA Policy | Privacy Statement | Links

Sprain and strain injuries are among the most common athletic type injuries, and are caused by over use and/or stretching beyond the tensile strength of ligament, tendon, or muscle tissue.

A sprain is defined as a stretching, ripping, or tearing of a ligament; a strain as stretching, ripping, or tearing of a muscle and/or tendon. Both injuries can be graded 1-4 representing a 25%, 50%, 75% or 100% disruption of tissue fibers. Grades 1-3 are typically treated with physical therapy, exercise and bracing. Grade 4 injuries usually require surgical repair, and represent a severe disruption of the tissue.

Treatment of these injuries typically begins with PRICE, which stands for protect, rest, ice, compression, and elevation and is the mnemonic which is used to remember the initial first aid treatment. Ice which is utilized for the acute phase of care on both sprain and strain injuries, is used to reduce swelling and relieve pain. After the acute phase of care heat is utilized to increase blood flow and help bring oxygen and nutrients to the injured tissues. Light stretching is done to promote fluid movement, maintain a full range of motion after healing is complete, and prevent the formation of adhesions and scar tissue which can decrease functional ability to the affected part which can develop years after the initial injury. There are many nutritional treatments which can be utilized to bring down inflammation, ease pain, and promote tissue healing without the side effects of pharmaceutical medications.

If the injury is mild home care will usually suffice. However, if unsure you should have these injuries evaluated and treated by a health care professional. Improper treatment of these types of injuries (or non-treatment) will cause problems in the future with joint mobility and advanced arthritis within the affected joint. Repeated sprain/strain injury to the same area will cause fibrotic buildup (increase in scar tissue) which may then create permanent joint dysfunction. Changes in the functional biomechanics of not only the affected joint but related joints will eventually cause structural imbalances.

At Northwest Wellness Center we specialize in treatment of acute injuries such as whiplash, neck and lower back sprain/strains, all kinds of sports related injuries such as tennis elbow, shin splints, shoulder and knee injuries, plantar fasciitis, or sprained ankles.