Point Sports Therapy Clinic
digital
INJURY DATA
SPRAINS & STRAINS
A sprain is a stretching or tearing of a ligament (the tissue connecting two bones together); whereas a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon (connects a muscle to a bone).
Average recovery time -
2 to 4 weeks
Likelihood of reoccurrence -
High
Digital illustration of sprains vs strains generated by EVE.
Sprains and strains are injuries to the soft tissue such as the muscles, tendons and/or ligaments in the body. They are extremely common in the sporting world and are caused by excessive stretching or twisting of the soft tissues.
A sprain is when a ligament which connects two bones, is injured and a strain is when a muscle or tendon connecting a muscle to bone is injured. Soft tissue is made up of lines of fibres and these can be damaged by stressing the structures with trauma or repetitive movements.
Children are more likely to experience a fracture over a sprain as their ligaments are usually stronger than their bones, this is because their bones are still growing and maturing (hardening).
Signs & SYMPTOMs
Pain in the affected area
Swelling
Redness
Bruising
Tenderness
Hearing or feeling a "pop" in your joint at the time of injury
Muscle spasm or tightening
Reduced strength
Reduced range of motion
Inability to weight bear
If you believe you have symptoms of a stress fracture please seek guidance from a medical professional! - EVE
Additional illustrations.
Above shows an expected VAS (pain) score for this injury as calculated by EVE.
sports
This injury is commonly seen in sports such as...
- All sports
treatment & prevention
Follow these steps to treat this injury....
Extra information
Ice is most effective within the first 72 hours of injury; however, it may slow down initial healing.
Get in touch with a sports therapist to assist with your injury rehabilitation journey.
Stay tuned for our upcoming therapist database!
Reach the starting point of your recovery by purchasing the complete injury rehabilitation package at the Self-Help Shop!
Follow these steps to prevent this injury....
DOs
Ensure a gradual return to sport following an injury
Switch to low impact exercises such as yoga, walking, biking or swimming during the healing process
Exercise on soft ground if possible
Warm up throughly before commencing any exercise
Cool down completely after engaging in vigorous activities
Ensure proper fitting shoes that provide adequate support for your feet; consider using insoles if needed.
Replace your footwear when they show signs of wear and tear
Use proper technique while engaging in sports - consider having someone observe you to remind you
Use sports equipment properly and in accordance with its intended purpose
Allow adequate rest between sessions and incorporate regular breaks in activities that put significant strain in the area
Visit EVE's Top Tips to prevent injury page!
(link below)
DON'Ts
Steer clear of heavy lifting where possible, or ask for assistance
Avoid playing sports if you are already fatigued
Minimise strenuous use and repetitive movements of the affected area - take regular breaks if unavoidable
Avoid increasing your activity levels too rapidly
Restrict your sporting activities until fully healed
Do not ignore your pain/symptoms! Address them promptly for a better recovery
Visit EVE's Top Tips to prevent injury page!
(link below)
The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.