Sprains & Strains

Sprains & Strains

Sprains and strains are common injuries to the musculoskeletal system. Although these two words are often used interchangeably, they are different types of injuries.A sprain is an injury involving the stretching or tearing of a ligament (tissue that connects bone to bone) or a joint capsule, which help provide joint stability.Strains are injuries that involve the stretching or tearing of a musculo-tendinous (muscle and tendon) structure.These strains take place when a muscle is stretched and suddenly contracts, as with running or jumping. This type of injury is frequently seen in runners who strain their hamstrings. Many times the injury will occur suddenly while the runner is in full stride. Symptoms for an acute muscle strain may include pain, muscle spasm, loss of strength, and limited range of motion.Chronic (long-lasting) strains are injuries that gradually build up from overuse or repetitive stress, resulting in tendinitis (inflammation of a tendon). For example, a tennis player may get tendinitis in his or her shoulder as the result of constant stress from repeated serves.

Here are some tips developed by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons to help reduce your injury risk:

1. Participate in a conditioning program to build muscle strength
2. Do stretching exercises daily
3. Always wear properly fitting shoes
4. Nourish your muscles by eating a well-balanced diet
5. Warm up before any sports activity, including practice
6. Use or wear protective equipment appropriate for that sport