Strains And Sprains

Question 1

What is a sprain**

Answer 1

Injury to a ligament structure surrounding a joint usually by a wrenching or twisting motion

Question 2

First degree Sprain

Answer 2

Mild

Involves tears in only a few fibers

Mild tenderness

Minimal swelling

Question 3

Second Degree Sprain

Answer 3

Moderate sprain

Partial disruption involved tissue with more swelling and tenderness

Question 4

Third degree sprain

Answer 4

Severe sprain

Complete ligament tear

Severe swelling

Gap in muscle may be apparent or palpable through skin if muscle is torn. Extremely painful

Question 5

What’s a strain?***

Answer 5

Excessive STRETCHING of a muscle, its fascia like sheath or a tendon.

Usually occur in large muscle groups (lower back, calf, hammy)

Question 6

First, Second and Third degree strain

Answer 6

First degree: miles or slightly pulled muscle
Second degree: moderate or moderately torn muscle
Third degree: severely torn or ruptured muscle

Question 7

Clinical manifestations of sprains and strains

Answer 7

Pain (aggravated by continued use

Question 8

Why are X-rays taken?

Answer 8

To rule out fractures

Question 9

Sever sprain can result in

Answer 9

Ligament pulls loose a fragment of the bone / concomitant allusion fracture and can result in dislocation

Question 10

At the time of injury what may occur?

Answer 10

Bleeding into the joint space or cavity/ hemarthrosis

Disruption of synovial lining

Question 11

Sever strains may require

Answer 11

Surgical muscle, tendon or surrounding fascia repair

Question 12

Health Promotion

Answer 12

Warm up muscles before activity and exercise
End activity and exercise with stretching to reduce sprain and strain risk
Stretch, balance and endurance exercise are important

Question 13

In injury occurs immediate care focuses on:

Answer 13

1. Stopping the activity and limiting movement
2. Applying ice compresses to the area
3. Compressing involved extremity
4. Elevating the extremity
5. Providing analgesia as necessary

Question 14

RICE***

This is a question on the final

Answer 14

REST
ICE (lynch: in beginning with acute attack)
COMPRESSION
ELEVATION

Decrease local inflammation and pain for most musculoskeletal injuries. Restrict movement, rest as soon as you feel pain. Unless severe prolonged rest is necessary

Question 15

Why should we ice the afflicted area?

How should it be used?

Answer 15

To relieve pain, reduce muscle spasms, inflammation and edema. Colts is most useful when applied immediately after the injury. Don’t exceed 20-30 mins/application. Don’t apply directly to skin.

Question 16

How is an elastic compression bandage used?

Answer 16

To wrap around the injured part starting at the point furthest from the midline. Use for 30 mins and remove for 15

Prevents edema and encouraged fluid return

Question 17

Why elevate the extremity?

Answer 17

Elevate above the heart level prevents edema by mobilizing excess fluid from the area. It should also be elevated during sleep

Question 18

What drugs can be given?

Answer 18

Mild analgesics and NSAID

Question 19

Treatment after the acute phase

Answer 19

Warm moist heat applied to affected area to reduce swelling and provide comfort. Don’t exceed 20-30min allowing area to cool between applications

Encourage movement of the limb if the joint is protected by a cast, brace, tape or splint

Question 20

What to tell the outpatient?

Answer 20

Use ice and elevate for 24-48 hours to reduce edema

Use mild analgesics to promote comfort

Elastic wrap can help with support during activities

It is soooo important to strengthen and condition exercise to prevent rein jury

Question 21

Common abnormal stretching or twisting force injuries

Answer 21

Strains and sprains