Sprains

Sprains are ligament injuries that are found around a joint. These ligaments are formed by very resistant and flexible fibers that support the bones, but when they are forced to the limit or perform a very abrupt and excessive movement, they break or stretch excessively. When these are stretched too much or break, the joint hurts and swells.

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Causes.

Sprains are caused when a joint is forced to move in an unnatural position. For example, the "twist" of an ankle causes a sprain in the ligaments around it. The ligament that covers the bones that unites is stretched beyond its possibilities until the distension, tear or rupture. They usually occur in the ankles, wrists, cervical vertebrae and fingers of the hands.

The main symptoms of sprains are:

• Joint or muscle pain: the complete or non-functional joint depends directly on the level of pain of the same.

• Inflammation: although the damaged area suffers a swelling, it does not affect the joint, unlike the dislocations and fractures, which deform and displace the joint of the bones.

• Joint stiffness: it is common to have difficulty moving the joint since you may feel pain.

• Bruising: they occur in the inflated area, and occurs when a blood vessel ruptures. The bruises can move and spread through the affected area, in addition to changing color as it disappears.

• Heat in the injured area: the temperature increases in the area of ​​the joint, since when blood accumulates, it accumulates heat.

Some steps for the first aid application include:

Apply ice immediately to reduce inflammation. Wrap the ice in a piece of cloth and do not apply it directly on the skin.
Firmly wrap a bandage around the affected area, but not tightly, to limit movement. Use a splint (splint) if necessary.

Keep the swollen joint above the level of the heart, even while you sleep.
Rest the affected joint for several days.
Avoid putting weight on the joint as it may worsen the injury. A sling for the arm, or crutches or a leg brace can protect the injury.
Anti-inflammatories and pain medication can help; However, consult a specialist first to avoid self-medication.

Remove the pressure from the affected area until the pain disappears. Most of the time, a mild sprain will heal in 7 to 10 days. It may take several weeks for the pain to disappear after a severe sprain. Your health care provider may recommend the use of crutches. Physical therapy can help recover movement and strength of the injured area.

Prevention:

To reduce the risk of suffering a sprain there are several measures and tips:

Use protective footwear for ankles and other joints when performing activities where pressure is exerted in those areas or on an irregular firm

Avoid shoes that do not adapt properly to the foot.

Perform stretching before exercising.

Avoid high heels that are worn on one side only.

Carry out a balanced diet and a healthy weight to keep muscles strong.

Run on flat surfaces and thus avoid supination and pronation.

When to contact a medical professional;

It is advisable to go to the specialist when the affected area does not improve, the pain increases or the inflammation does not disappear after two days. Also important to call the doctor if symptoms of infection appear as reddened skin or fever above 38 degrees. (Go to the nearest health center immediately and put your health in the hands of the experts.)