Sprains and Strains

Muscles and ligaments are responsible for everything we do eat day. They keep us upright, allow us to move and preventing us from moving too much. So what happens when they are pushed beyond their limits? First, we need to discuss the difference between a sprain and strain.

Muscle Strains

Muscle connect to bones at various spots. When the muscle contracts, it pulls on the bone causing it to move. The body is able do this quickly or slowly. When a muscle is overworked, overstretched or asked to do something it is not capable of, it can tear. We call this tear a strain. There are varying degrees of a muscle strain and each degree can effect your recovery time and function.

Ligament Sprains

Ligaments are tough, fibrous tissues that hold our bones together. They stretch to allow up great flexibility and work in conjunction with muscles to help us move. When ligaments are stretched too far they can tear casing a sprain. The most common example of this is an ankle sprain. The ligaments that hold the bones in the foot to the lower leg stretch too far and tear. Just like muscle strain, there are varying degrees of sprains and each degree will effect recovery time and function.

Treatment

In both sprains and strains early detection and treatment is the key to a fast recovery. When the tissues tears blood floods the area and fibers are laid down to repair the tissue. This is a great system except the fibers are not laid down in a particular pattern which can cause a decrease in range of motion in the future. A great example of this is an ankle sprain that is untreated. The symptoms can last for months and even when the pain is gone, range of motion may still be limited.

If you have a sprain or strain, call our Saratoga Springs chiropractic office immediately for assessment and treatment.