Definition:
Ligament Sprains occur when ligaments (the tissues that hold bones together) are stretched or torn all of a sudden. Most sprains occur around joints such as the ankles, knees, or fingers.
Diagnosis:
A sprain can be confirmed by the doctor with a physical exam of the affected area.
Treatment:
The doctor may order an x-ray of the injury to make sure there is no broken a bone. If there is severe sprain, the patient may need a splint to keep the injured area immobile so it will heal. If he scratched or tore some skin, he may also need a tetanus shot.
Symptoms and Signs:
Symptoms generally include pain, tenderness, and swelling in the injured area. Movement may be difficult for the patient.
Causes:
Sprained ligaments often result from falling or twisting the joint. One may also get a sprain if he is in a car accident. The ankle is the most frequent site of this kind of injury.
The information on this site is for research purposes only and can not substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Ailments.com is not run by doctors and does not engage in the practice of medicine. Our site is not a medical authority, it is just a research tool for you to use in preparation for consulting with a doctor. We can not guarantee our information is accurate or up to date. Even if a statement made about a medical condition is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms, so you should always consult a doctor. Nothing on our site should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine.
