Getting involved in an accident, playing sports, or lifting heavy objects are all factors that can cause strains and sprains. You can develop either of the two at your upper or lower limbs.
Sometimes we may dismiss the injury as minor and fail to get treatment when it is needed. It is usually because we are not aware we have a serious injury. Keep reading to learn the signs of sprains and strains so you can treat your injury and get professional help when you need it.
5 Signs of Sprains
Sprains are injuries to a ligament in the body. One or more ligaments experience a tear or stretch that is either partial or complete. The extent of injury depends on how many ligaments are involved and how big the tear or stretch is.
Most sprains are ankle injuries that arise during recreational or sports activities. They can also occur at the knee (such as when you fall) or the wrist (when you land on an outstretched hand).
- Limited movement
- Popping sensation or sound
- Bruising
- Inflammation and swelling
- Pain
Most people will not be able to move their ankle, stand, flex, or bend when they have a sprain. When the injury first occurs, you may feel or hear a popping sound as the ligament stretches or rips.
The area around the site may change colors and be blue, red, or purple as it bruises. Pain and swelling also occur. They are two of the 5 cardinal signs of inflammation.
5 Signs of Strains
Strains are injuries to either the tendon or muscle, not the tendon. Like sprains, they occur when the area gets stretched or torn. This happens when you pull or twist your muscle or tendon. It can happen from trauma or when lifting heavy objects.
- Muscle weakness
- Muscle spasm
- Inflammation and swelling
- Cramping
- Pain
You may notice you have a decrease in muscle pain if you have a moderate strain. Severe strains cause the muscle or tendon to tear into two parts. This causes pain and swelling as well as a complete loss of function which warrants quick treatment.
You may also experience muscle spasms, an involuntary contraction in the muscle. This can cause the cramping sensation many people feel aside from pain. Doctors will often advise you to use the RICE method to heal the injury. They may also suggest an OTC medication for the pain or write a prescription.
Getting Urgent Care
Strains and sprains share inflammation, swelling, and pain as common symptoms. Limited movement, bruising, and popping sounds are more specific signs of sprains. Whereas cramping, muscle spasm, and muscle weakness are more specific signs of strains.
No matter which of the two you have, the pain is often the main reason people seek urgent care. Addressing pain is also an important part of the healing process. Doctors can help identify the severity of your injury to give you the best treatment possible.
You can get quick help by reserving a spot or calling us at 954-214-0527. Quick assistance and relief is only a click or phone call away.