A sprain is the stretching or tearing of ligaments, the tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect one bone to another. Sprains cause rapid swelling. There are 3 kinds of sprains:

• Mild: the ligament is over-stretched, is somewhat painful and tender but there is not much swelling. If the sprain is in the ankle or foot, weight bearing is possible.
• Moderate: some fibres of the ligament are torn but not all have been ruptured; the joint is tender, painful and difficult to move, the area is swollen and possibly discoloured from bleeding. Weight bearing is unsteady for ankle and knee sprains.
• Severe: the ligament is torn completely; the area painful, the joint does not move normally and is swollen and discoloured. For ankle and knee sprains weight bearing is impossible and the condition may resemble a fracture.

Initial treatment for all sprains is R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression and elevation) as soon as possible and for 72 hours after injury. This helps promote healing, decreases pain, and reduces swelling around the joint.

A strain is the stretching or tearing of muscle or tendon. People commonly call strains "pulled" muscles. Hamstring strains and back injuries are the most common. Signs and symptoms that you have strained a muscle or tendon are:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Bruising

Follow the R.I.C.E. procedure immediately and continue for 72 hours or until symptoms have ceased.

Physiotherapy should start as soon after the injury as possible.

A physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment and develop an individual treatment plan to help people of all ages and lifestyles.
They will help you to gain and to maintain a level of active living and physical functioning that suits you.

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