Top

How to take care of that common sprain

September 9, 2008


Sprains can ruin a perfectly normal day especially when you least expect it. And, though they may not appear to be something very dangerous, it is a fact, that they can really be painful and handicap your movements for a while.

A sprain is actually an injury to a ligament (strong elastic like bands that hold bones and joints in place). People complain of knee and ankle sprains more often than other kinds of sprains. A sprain can result in pain and swelling which can be unbearable if the ligament tear is severe. Some sprains are mild and you can still walk. The severe kinds of sprains cause the area to be swollen and discolored due to bleeding. Putting weight on the sprained area or walking can become impossible if the injury is a dislocation or a fracture.

The best way to immediately treat a sprain is to avoid using the joint where the sprain has taken place. This can be done by using crutches or splints. It is always better if the injured area can be given a cold pack (like ice or cold water). This is done to ward of swelling. Bandage the area to avoid movement and finally put up the injured limb to reduce or avoid extra swelling. Over the counter medicines for pains are also helpful. If not all the mentioned measures work and you have fever, pain and cannot work then, consult a doctor who will take an x-ray to confirm whether it is a fracture or a bone injury. A MRI is also a probable means of diagnosis. Sometimes, even fatigue or inaccurate warm-up before exercise could cause you a sprain as the muscles are over stretched carelessly or are not loosened.

Prevention is always better than a cure so, do some regular stretching exercises to be fit and free from sprains and strains. And, if you are the type who always lands up with a sprain then try to protect vulnerable areas by wrapping or taping them. Take care!


Comments

Got something to say? Join the conversation and leave a comment below.





What's More today?

How To Help Your Dry Scalp When It Itches

It is mostly during winter that most people complain of dryness and itching sensation on the skin. If... 

How Does Exercise Help Children Do Better In School

Yes, it is perfectly right. Exercise does help children to do better in academics and school. It  has... 

Best Ways to Maintain Your Slim Figure

There are a million people around the globe that are engaged in the battle of the bulge almost daily.... 

Tricks that Help to Get Rid of a Nasal Voice

A nasal voice is not the most appealing tones to hear. This becomes an issue when you are talking over... 

Health Benefits and Nutritional Quotient of Cloves

As a child I wondered why my mother used dark colored pieces of wood and stone like substances in our... 

What Do You Gain When You Drink Coconut Water Daily

Break open a tough coconut and you will get some deliciously healthy water. Coconuts are commonly used... 

Tell Me About The Various Aspects of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is very easily treatable when it is detected in the early stages. An early aggressive... 

How to Decrease Appetite in Order to Loose Weight and Be Fit

We are all after our ideal weight. It is a goal that most of us try to attain and try for as long as... 

How to Take Care of Hands

Your hands; like your feet are tortured all day long. If your feet are responsible for taking on the... 

How Can Food Help A Person With Arthritis

A person with arthritis may benefit a lot by taking a suitable diet along with the medications. It is... 

Rheumatoid Arthritis – Age And Cures

Rheumatoid Arthritis has been known for a long time and there is a general feeling that it affects only... 

Are there any Benefits to Eating Beef?

Beef is the meat of domesticated cattle like cows. It is generally known as red meat and is used commonly... 

How Can Breast Cancer Patients Lead A Normal Life

Most people who are affected by breast cancer think it is the end of the world and that they have to... 

How Does Exercise Help In Getting Over Diabetes

Many people are of the opinion that popping in a pill or taking a shot of insulin along with a sugar... 

Easy Remedies to Lower Blood Cholesterol Count Naturally

Increase in the levels of blood cholesterol leads to an increased risk of heart diseases like attacks,... 

Bottom