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A sprain (from the French espraindre - to wring) is an injury which occurs to ligaments caused by a sudden overstretching (for the muscle injury, see strain). The ligament is usually only stretched, but sometimes it can be snapped, slightly torn, or ruptured, all of which are more serious and require longer to heal. Sprains are graded in three degrees. Although some signs and symptoms can be used to assess the severity of a sprain, the most definitive method is with the use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). A first degree sprain has only minor tearing of the ligament whereas a third degree sprain is characterized by complete rupture. The typical signs and symptoms associated with a sprain are the cardinal signs of inflammation: localized pain, swelling, and loss of function. Although any joint can experience a sprain, some of the more common include the ankle, knee, and fingers. Perhaps one of the more talked about sprains is that to the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) of the knee. This is a disabling sprain common to athletes, especially basketball, soccer, and judo players.
Treatment Typical treatment of a minor sprain consists of the following: Keep pressure off the injured area until the pain subsides (usually 2 - 4 weeks for mild sprains and up to 3 - 5 months for severe sprains). Crutches may be necessary for ambulation. Rehabilitation to regain the motion and strength of the joint should begin within one week. Remember the acronym PRICES: Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, and Support (when returning to activity). How To Prevent A Sprain | ||||||||
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