Sprains Specialist

What are sprains?

A sprain occurs when you overextend or tear a ligament, the tough bands of tissue that connect two or more bones at a joint. It’s possible to sprain almost any joint in the body, but the ankles are particularly susceptible. 

Most sprains respond to conservative treatments like ice, rest, and elevation. If your symptoms persist for more than a few days or affect your mobility, don’t wait to seek professional help.

What are the symptoms of sprains?

Common symptoms of sprains include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Limited mobility

If you suffer a sprain, you might also find it difficult to place weight on the affected joint. 

What causes sprains?

Sprains occur for various reasons, including walking or exercising on uneven surfaces, landing awkwardly after a jump, or pivoting during athletic activity. You might also experience a sprain if you ski or play a racquet sport like tennis or racquetball.

Is there any way to prevent sprains?

You can significantly reduce the risk of a sprain by warming up prior to exercise. In addition, it’s important to practice proper form and wear the necessary safety equipment. Following an in-office consultation, the team at Bluewater Orthopedics can make recommendations that align with your lifestyle and needs.

How are sprains diagnosed?

To diagnose a sprain, your Bluewater Orthopedics provider physically examines your ankle, looking for swelling, bruising, or areas of tenderness. Details like the location and severity of your pain help the team determine the source of your discomfort.

If a physical exam isn’t enough to make a diagnosis, the team orders X-rays or an MRI. These diagnostic imaging techniques can rule out more serious injuries like fractures or dislocations.

How are sprains treated?

The team at Bluewater Orthopedics uses safe, non-invasive treatments to manage sprains. Depending on the type of sprain you have, they might recommend the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, and elevation), a splint, alternating between ice and heat, or physical therapy.

The length of time it takes to recover from a sprain depends on the severity of the injury and your adherence to your doctor’s treatment plan.

To learn more about the treatment of sprains, make an appointment at Bluewater Orthopedics by calling the nearest office or by clicking the online booking tool today.