Ligament sprain

Feet | Rheumatology | Ligament sprain (Disease)


Description

A sprain is an injury that damages a ligament. A ligament is a firm, fibrous band of tissue. It connects two bones across a joint. There are ligaments crossing all of the joints in the body. Grade 1 and 2 sprains damage only the internal structure of a ligament. The ligament remains intact. Grade 1 is less severe than grade 2. Grade 3 sprains result in complete tears of the involved ligament. Grade 3 sprains are sometimes called torn or ruptured ligaments.

Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising and being unable to move your joint. You might feel a pop or tear when the injury happens.

Causes and Risk factors

Falling, twisting, or getting hit can all cause a sprain. Ankle and wrist sprains are common. Sprains can happen suddenly or develop over time. Back and hamstring muscle strains are common. Many people get sprains playing sports.

Diagnosis and Treatment

An MRI can identify the tear and the extent of damage.

At first, treatment of both sprains usually involves resting the injured area, icing it, wearing a bandage or device that compresses the area, and medicines. Later treatment might include exercise and physical therapy.

Signs and symptoms will vary, depending on the severity of the injury. ...