Orthopaedics & Rheumatology \ Sprains and Strains

Question 1

What is the difference between a sprain and a strain?

Answer 1

• Sprain: stretching of a ligament or joint capsule
• Strain: partial tear of muscle-tendon unit

Question 2

What is the typical history reported by a patient with an acute sprain?

Answer 2

• Sudden trauma or fall with “pop” or “snap” followed by pain, swelling, ecchymosis, or difficulty weight-bearing

Question 3

What is the typical history in a patient with a muscle strain?

Answer 3

• Sudden stretch on a muscle while it is actively contracting
• if severe, can be associated with a “snapping” sensation

Question 4

What is the treatment for an acute sprain?

Answer 4

PRICEMMMS

• Protection
• Relative rest
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation
• Medication
• Modalities
• Range of Motion
• Strength

Question 5

Grades of ankle sprains

Minimal swelling, little to no ecchymosis, minimal decreased range of motion (ROM)

Answer 5

Grade 1

Question 6

Grade of ankle strain

Moderate “goose-egg” swelling, generalized tenderness, mild ecchymosis, and decreased ROM

Answer 6

Grade 2

Question 7

Grade the ankle sprain

Diffuse swelling, blurring of Achilles margin, medial ecchymosis, greatly decreased ROM

Answer 7

Grade 3