What is a sprain?
A sprain is an injury to a joint resulting from trauma, causing the stretching or tearing of ligaments.
Sprains are classified into three grades:
- Grade I: there is no ligament tear, only stretching.
- Grade II: partial tear of the ligaments; the joint remains stable.
- Grade III: complete tear of the ligaments, resulting in joint instability.
The most common causes of sprains are:
- Accidental falls.
- Sports injuries, mainly related to sudden movements and rapid changes of direction.
- Excessive extension of a joint, which may overstretch the ligaments.
What are the symptoms?
The first symptom to appear immediately after the injury is pain. Subsequently, the affected area undergoes a fluid build-up to accelerate the healing process, leading to swelling and warmth.
In addition, sprained joints show reduced function and pain during movement.
How to diagnose it?
To accurately diagnose the type of injury, ultrasound scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are generally performed. If the pain is severe and joint mobility is very limited, an X-ray is carried out to rule out a fracture.
Occupational therapy treatment may involve the fabrication of a custom-made splint to immobilise the affected area when necessary, the use of compression bandaging and anti-oedema techniques, physical therapies such as Tecar therapy and therapeutic ultrasound, and joint mobilisation to prevent stiffness and maintain correct movement patterns.
This is followed by a phase of muscle strengthening through specific exercises aimed at stabilising the affected joint and facilitating a return to daily, work-related and sporting activities.
If you want to know more about it, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Polispecialistico Paradiso!
