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Get 5% Off, Code: RSPAM, Exclusions Apply
If there is anything harder than dealing with a sprain or strain, it is to try and define them. More often than not, these two terms are used interchangeably for overstretching and soft tissue injuries.
These relatively common injuries can result from exertion, sports, or training. Some common symptoms like pain, swelling, and immobility in the injured areas make a sprain, and a strain looks quite similar. However, there are several differences between them.
One of the most significant differences is that a strain results from the tearing of a tendon that connects the muscle to the bone, whereas a sprain damages the ligament, connecting one bone to another at the joint.
The most common locations for muscle strains are the hamstring muscle and the lower back, whereas the ankle is the most common location for a muscle sprain.
| Symptoms of Sprains | Symptoms of Strains |
|---|---|
| pain around the affected joint | pain around the affected joint |
| bruising | muscle spasm |
| limited flexibility | limited flexibility |
| swelling | swelling |
| reduced ROM | reduced ROM |
There are some situations that can make us more prone to these types of injuries -
RICE to the Rescue
Mild strains and sprains are treated with the standard RICE technique. RICE stands for:
The RICE technique must be used for the first few hours after the injury to curb the pain and symptoms. Surgery may be the most viable option for severe sprains and strains to repair torn or damaged muscles, ligaments, or tendons.
Seek immediate medical attention if the following symptoms occur -
Wraps the entire foot and ankle with soft fleece, providing cool and calming relief. This cold therapy pack is intended to facilitate aching and painful ankles with compression and offers quick cryotherapy for soft tissue injuries to the ankle.
Proven to reduce the chances of reinjuring the ankle. The material at the bottom of the ankle brace prevents the brace from sliding off. Similarly, the elastic forefoot material lessens fabric bunching, and the breathable spacer mesh lining wicks moisture away. It offers steadfast protection for an injured ankle and avoids any inversion and eversion of the ankle joint. The Figure-eight brace has straps made of non-stretch nylon to secure the calcaneus in a neutral posture.
Provides firm ankle support with an adjustable figure-8 lace-up ankle strap for rollover protection. This ankle brace provides the right blend of compression and support for ankle sprains and comfortably fits virtually every type of shoe. Ovation Medical ankle brace for sprain provides protection appropriate for rehabilitation and athletic use.
A premium brace that offers a high level of support while still being lightweight. The additional straps and metallic splint provide maximum stabilization, while the anatomic design and micro-aerated 3D fabric ensure optimum comfort.
A hybrid between a rigid ankle stirrup and soft ankle support, the Formfit Ankle ensures a close fit that limits inversion, eversion, flexion, and extension movements. The low-profile design of the brace fits easily into shoes, and the quick lace-up feature makes it easy to don and doff.
Designed to provide pain relief and prevent injuries by compressing and supporting the SI joints (Sacroiliac Joints). The sacroiliac joint has been the major cause of low back pain. Sprained ligaments disturb the balance of muscular response, which results in muscle spasms, and back, hip, and leg pain.
The specifically designed brace is used to relieve pain and release excessive stress from the pelvis and sacroiliac joints caused due to instability in the SI joints. This sacroiliac back belt stabilizes and supports the sacrum by squeezing the joints together. Many people use this brace for stabilizing hip joints and curbing sciatica pain and scoliosis. Ideal for pregnancy, pulled muscles in the back, or post-surgery.
Designed for pediatric, geriatric, and wheelchair-bound patients needing spinal stabilization and support. This back support is manufactured with plastic-rigid foam and soft foam. The outer layer of plastic ensures proper alignment of the spine. Subsequently, the in-between layer of rigid foam adds stability, and the soft inner foam provides the patient with excellent padding and overall comfort.
Provides a tailored and contour fit with the right amount of gradient pressure. These compression stockings facilitate optimum pressure at the ankle and gradually reduce throughout the length of the leg. Constructed with 80 percent nylon and 20 percent spandex with an open-knit weave guarantees excellent counterpressure for the life of the stocking.
Designed to provide moderate compression, support, and warmth for groin pull, hamstring strains, and quadricep injuries. The easy wraparound design can help ease symptoms of iliotibial band syndrome and the resulting knee pain due to inflammation. This high-quality neoprene thigh wrap delivers uniform compression and promotes circulation to curb swelling and inflammation.
Most people return to their routine lifestyle within two to three days after a mild strain or sprain. However, to fully heal and prevent reinjury, it is best to be cautious for at least two to three weeks post-recovery by taping the joint or supporting it with a brace.
Severe soft tissue injuries may take longer than usual. Physical therapy may help regain lost strength and range of motion. See your doctor if the pain persists or if it becomes difficult to manage daily activities.
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