Treatment For Sprains and Strains

The difference between a sprain and a strain is the body part affected. A sprain is a ligament tear, most commonly in the ankle. A strain is a muscle or tendon tear or overstretching.

Symptoms

  • Sprain symptoms include pain, swelling, and sometimes a bruised sensation with limited mobility.
  • A “pop” in the joint will occasionally occur.
  • Strain symptoms include pain, swelling, muscle spasms and limited mobility.

Who is at risk?

Strains and sprains most often happen in relation with sports as a result of fatigue or poor conditioning. The risk is also higher if muscles are not properly warmed prior to activity.   People who have a previous sprain or strain that has not completely healed have a higher risk of re-injury.

Treatment

Initial treatment is usually rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE).  A physician might direct use of a splint or brace to immobilize the area while it heals. Surgical correction is reserved for severe cases, especially in sport injuries.

Emergency Warning Signs: When should I see a doctor?

See a physician if the patient cannot walk more than a few steps or cannot move the affected joint. Numbness is another indicator that needs medical attention. Red streaks radiating from the affected area need to be evaluated as well. If you injure the same area repeatedly, you should also see a doctor.

Treatment for Sprains and Strains is available now at South Atlanta Urgent Care Clinic in Atlanta.

For more information on Sprains and Strains, see the following websites:

Mayo Clinic Definition of Sprains and Strains

Medline Plus Overview of Sprains and Strains

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Oh my goodness! The staff here were amazing and accommodated us for an unexpected walk up test we needed. Such great service at the end of a long day. Thank you!

Our primary doctor's office closed early today so we decided to go to this urgent care. The staff was very professional and personal with us. My son asked if we could change our provider to this location (which means he was comfortable here) but I was informed by the staff member that they have a provider in Morrow. We will be using their doctor soon as our primary provider. The doctor was great with explaining the issue and electronically sending the prescription to our pharmacy of choice. I will be back if I ever need an urgent care facility.