A sprain is an injury to a ligament.  Ligaments connect bones to bones and hold joints together.  They usually occur when a forceful stretch is placed on the ligament.  An example of this would be the common ankle sprain, when the foot ‘rolls’ inward, stretching the ligaments on the outside of the ankle beyond their limits. 

Sprains cause inflammation and can be very painful.  Scar tissue begins to develop in order to heal the ligament, but if not treated will also form in surrounding tissues, altering their normal function. 

Treatment

It is important to determine whether the joint is stable, meaning the ligaments are still holding it together, or unstable, meaning the ligaments have been torn completely and are no longer holding the joint together.  This is determined through clinical exam and/or MRI.

Treatment of sprains includes mobilization within the patient’s tolerance in order to minimize the negative effects of scar tissue formation and to facilitate blood and lymphatic flow.  Ice is effective for reducing inflammation.   Functional soft tissue work (A.R.T., Graston) is used to decrease scar tissue in the surrounding tissues, maintaining the most normal function possible while the injured ligament heals.  Kinesiotaping may be used to support ligaments, activate muscles and reduce inflammation.

Functional rehabilitation is very important in the treatment of sprains.  This is to restore the normal movement and function of the all the tissues surrounding the joint.  Neurosensory training is also important for training the sense of balance in the joint so that all the muscles can work effectively to prevent future injuries.