Understand a minor sprain

A sprain is one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries that can affect people of all ages. This injury occurs when the ligaments, the tough bands of tissue that hold the joints together, are stretched, partially torn, or ruptured1. These ligaments are commonly found in the ankles, knee, wrist, and thumb.

Ligaments hold the joints together to provide stability, especially when a person is moving. So when the ligaments are forced to move beyond their normal range of motion, it induces severe pain and swelling2. 

Happy
What are the common causes of a minor sprain?

It is a common notion that people who are into sports and other rigorous activities are more prone to sprain. But, a person’s daily activities, especially when done improperly, also puts them at risk3.

Ankle sprain: walking on uneven and slippery surfaces, tripping from the stairs, landing awkwardly from a jump4.

Knee sprain: applying the wrong pressure when pivoting, especially during an athletic activity4.

Knee sprain: applying the wrong pressure when pivoting, especially during an athletic activity4.

Wrist sprain: landing on the palms after a jump, or breaking your fall using the hands4.

Thumb sprain: happens when thumbs are forcefully bent beyond their limits, such as when playing volleyball, tennis, or when breaking a fall5.

Happy
What are the symptoms of a minor sprain?

The two most common symptoms of a minor sprain are pain and swelling3. Other symptoms a person can observe are:

  • Tenderness on the sprained area
  • Bruising
  • Limited motion, such as difficulty in walking
Happy
How to treat a minor sprain?

Whether it may be ankle, wrist, knee, or thumb sprain, always remember these easy-to-do treatment tips to help ease swelling and pain.

Rest the sprained joint 
Sprains happen when a person overextends or overexerts their joints beyond their normal capacity. That is why, to help it heal faster and manage the pain better, the person should relax the affected joint.

  • Ice

Cover the sprained joint with a wet towel and place an ice bag on top of it to help numb the pain. Let it stay for at least 10 minutes, then remove the cold compress for 40 minutes. Repeat this step as often as needed within the first 48 to 72 hours of the injury.

To better manage the pain and swelling, apply ointment containing eucalyptus oil and camphor which hold anti-inflammatory properties. 

  • Compress

Quickly immobilize the sprained area by carefully wrapping an elastic bandage to the injury. This will help manage the swelling and prevent the sprain from worsening. 

  • Elevate

Recline the sprained joint on a soft area, such as the bed or sofa. Place it slightly higher than the hips. This step will also help limit the swelling and prevent the person from accidentally applying pressure on the sprained joint.

Happy
When should I consult my doctor?
  • If the sprain does not show any signs of improvement within a few days4;
  • If the sprained joint is or almost unusable, such as being unable to bear weight, unstable, and numb4;
  • If the area surrounding the injury shows signs of infection, such as redness or red streaks4;
  • If the person experiences pain directly over the bones4;
  • If the sprained area has been injured in the past, or if the injured person experiences severe pain4.
References:
  1. Ankle Sprain (n.d.). Singapore Orthopaedic Centre. Retrieved September 20, 2020 from: http://www.orthopaediccentre.com.sg/ankle-sprain/
  2. Ankle Sprain (n.d.). Singapore Sports and Orthopaedic Clinic. Retrieved September 20, 2020 from: https://www.boneclinic.com.sg/orthopaedic-conditions/foot-and-ankle-pain/ankle-sprain/
  3. Ankle sprains. (2019). University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics. Retrieved September 20, 2020 from: https://uihc.org/health-topics/ankle-sprains
  4. Sprains (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved September 20, 2020 from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sprains/symptoms-causes/syc-20377938
  5. Sprained Thumb (n.d.). OrthoInfo. Retrieved from September 20, 2020 from: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/sprained-thumb
  6. Ankle Sprain (2011). Khoo Teck Puat Hospital. Retrieved September 20, 2020 from: https://www.ktph.com.sg/hllibrary/display/851
     
Pink and Gray Curve Image

Related Articles

Putting on a diaper after applying nappy cream

Learn about nappy rash

Nappy rash can occur at any time during your child’s nappy-wearing stage. Most children will experience nappy rash during this time. Fortunately, finding the best cream for nappy rash is not an issue.

Find out more
Baby holding fingers in mouth

Can teething cause nappy rash?

Teething, which often begins in babies around six months, can be a challenging time for both parent and baby. But does teething cause nappy rash?

Find out more
Feet of newborn baby

Skin irritation and barrier cream for babies

There’s nothing quite like the softness of a baby’s skin. That’s why Bepanthen is here to give you a helping hand in caring for your precious little one.

Find out more