Sprain – Nicole Gillett

Sprain – Nicole Gillett

A sprain is damage to one or more ligaments in any joint, usually caused by direct trauma or the joint being taken beyond it’s range of motion.

The severity of the sprain can range from minor (only last a few days) to major (usually requires a surgical fix). The most common joints that are affected by a sprain are ankle and wrist. Symptoms are pain, swelling, bruising, decreased range of motion, might hear a popping sound, and a hard time moving the joint.

The different classifications are in degrees for severity:

1st Degree- Fibres of the ligament stretched but still attached.
2nd Degree- A tear to part of a ligament from a third to almost all fibres.
3rd Degree- Is a complete tear of a ligament, and sometimes breaking a piece of bone off with it.
Treatments are rest, ice, compression, elevation, and sometimes surgery. Seek medical assistance when needed.