Sprains & Strains Flashcards
Define Musculoskeletal Disorders
Injuries or disorders of the muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage, & supporting structures of the upper and lower limbs, neck, and lower back that are caused, precipitated, or exacerbated by sudden exertion or prolonged exposure to physical factors
Causes of Sprains & Strains
Excessive reaching, bending, lifting, gripping, squatting or twisting of hands, shoulders or body
Work performed with high force, with many repetitions, or an awkward position
Define Sprain
Stretch or tear of a ligament caused by a sudden pull
Stretched too far from normal position
Define Strain
Injury to a muscle or tendon as a result of suddenly pulling them too far
Most Common Sprain
Ankle
Most Common Strain
Back
Other Common Locations of Sprains
Wrist
Thumb: skiing & other sports
Grade I Ankle Sprain
Ligaments stretched or slightly torn
Grade II Ankle Sprain
Ligaments partially torn
Grade III Ankle Sprain
Ligaments completely torn
Other Common Locations of Strains
Hamstring
Hand
Forearm
Elbow
How do strains occur?
Carrying, holding, or restraining items, people or animals Lifting, pushing, holding or pulling loads Working in a fixed position Sitting or standing continuously Driving vehicles for long periods Repetitive tasks Working in awkward positions Vibrations through the body
In what professions are strains common?
Construction Agriculture Trucking/transportation Food services Delivery services Custodial services
Signs & Symptoms of a Sprain
Pain
Swelling
Bruising
Not being able to move joint
Signs & Symptoms of a Strain
Pain Muscle spasms Muscle weakness Swelling Cramping Trouble moving the muscle
Treatment for Sprains & Strains
RICE: 24-48 hours Anti-inflammatories Mobility aides (moderate) Possible surgery (severe) Short course of narcotics Rehabilitation
Ottawa Rules for Ankle Sprains
Pain in the malleolar zone plus one of the following
Bone tenderness of posterior edge of tibia or tip of medial malleolus
Bone tenderness of posterior edge of fibula or tip of lateral malleolus
Inability to wear bear immediately & in ED for 4 steps
Rehabilitation Phase of Treatment of Sprains & Strains
PT/exercise program
Increased strength & flexibility
Advanced stretching
Return to full activities
Time to Heal for a Mild Sprain/Strain
3-6 weeks
Time to Heal for a Moderate Sprain/Strain
2-3 months
Time to Heal for a Severe Sprain/Strain
8-12 months
Prevention of Sprains/Strains
Stretch before workout
Proper footwear for activity
Adequate warm up
Don’t run on icy/uneven surfaces
