Sprains & Strains

About Sprain / Strain

Sprains and strains are very common in the hand, wrist and elbow. Sprains refer to injuries of the ligaments (connect bone to bone) and strains refer to injuries of the muscles or tendons (connect muscle to bone). Sprains and strains occur from quick over-stretching of the tissues causing micro-tearing and subsequent injury. Swelling begins as part of the inflammation process, causing pain and difficulty with movement.

The first step in treating sprains or strains in the wrist, elbow, hand or fingers is to rest, ice and elevate it. With severe limitations in movement you should see your physiotherapist right away. There are different levels of sprain or strain from mild to severe. In some cases, the tearing can be complete and even need surgical repair.

How physiotherapy helps

In most cases, physiotherapy can effectively help you recover from a sprain or strain. We first evaluate the injured area to determine the extent of the injury and ensure that the ligaments or tendons are still intact. After we pinpoint the injured area, we formulate a treatment plan that will quickly relieve your swelling, pain and begin restoring range of motion.

The goal of physiotherapy is to restore your normal range of motion and eventually restore normal strength. If you participate in sports or are very active, we work closely with you to make sure that we help you fully recover and can participate in those activities you love to do. Call Kinetesis Spine & Joint Clinic today to discover how we can effectively treat your sprains or strains.