A sprain is an injury to a ligament, which is a tough band of tissue that connects bones to each other and stabilizes joints. Sprains commonly occur in the ankles, wrists, and knees and are usually the result of a sudden twist or fall.
The symptoms of a sprain can include pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, and difficulty moving the affected joint. The severity of a sprain can vary from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the ligament damage.
Treatment for a sprain typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), as well as taking pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, physical therapy may also be recommended to help with rehabilitation and to prevent future injuries.
It’s important to properly warm up and stretch before engaging in physical activity to help prevent sprains. If you experience a sprain, it’s important to allow your body time to heal before returning to your normal level of activity to avoid re-injury.
