Physical therapy can help you find real relief through natural and effective pain management if you’ve experienced a painful sprain or strain. Our practitioners provide natural and effective pain management and elimination for sprains and strains.
Sprains and strains can occur in any joint of the body where ligaments are present. Some common areas where sprains occur include the ankle, wrist, knee, and thumb. However, sprains can also occur in other areas such as the elbow, shoulder, and neck.
If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort in one of these areas, it’s possible that you may have a strain or sprain. Although people tend to use these terms interchangeably, they are not the same. A strain refers to the overstretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon, while a sprain involves the overstretching or tearing of a ligament.
Symptoms of Sprains and Strains
Strains and sprains share similar symptoms, such as muscle spasms, swelling, inflammation, limited flexibility, and pain around the affected joint. However, sprains typically show bruising on the skin around the injured area. These injuries can occur from a variety of causes, including lifting heavy objects, overexertion, athletic activities, slipping and falling, and prolonged repetitive motion.
Physical Therapy for Sprains and Strains
Most sprains and strains can be treated with the RICE technique (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation), which can be done at home. However, if the injury doesn’t heal this way, it’s time to see a medical provider. Physical therapy can play a crucial role in recovery, as physical therapists can provide a variety of treatments, including:
- Targeted exercises and stretches
- Electrical stimulation
- Ultrasound
- Massage
- Heat therapy
Ankle injuries are a common sprain/strain. Half of all ankle sprains occur during athletic activity, and more than 1 million people visit emergency rooms each year due to ankle injuries. While they can happen to anyone at any age, men between 15 and 24 years old have higher rates of ankle sprains and women older than age 30 have higher rates than men.
If you’re suffering from a joint strain or sprain, it’s important not to delay treatment. Contact our physical therapy clinic in San Luis Obispo, CA or Woodstock, NY today to schedule an appointment with our experienced and certified physical therapists, who will assess your condition and create an individualized treatment program to help you recover and get back to your normal life.
