Sprain

A sprain means an injury that occurs to ligaments caused by a sudden overstretching. The ligament is usually stretched whenever we move, but it will be torn if extended on its normal range of stretching. Although this condition brings pain, it can be cured with longer period of immobilization and rest. If the condition is much worse, it needs surgical repair to minimize further damage.

Sprain usually occurs in the following body parts:

• Ankle
• Knee
• Fingers
• Wrist

Degree of Sprain

1st – minor tear or stretch of a ligament
2nd – tear of a ligament, with pain or swelling
3rd – ligament complete rupture
4th  – ligament breakage (this requires surgery)

Causes of Sprain

• Accidents
• Sports activities
• Lifting weights
• Running or walking on uneven ground
• Bending or overexertion of a joint beyond the normal motion
• Unexpected response of the body due to sudden loose of balance

Symptoms of Sprain

• Redness
• Discoloration
• Bruising of the skin around the affected area
• Swelling and pain in the affected area
• Loss of function of the affected area
• Decreased ligament elasticity

Treatment / Home remedies for Sprain

Rest:
Minimize immobilization to avoid further overstretching

Ice Pack:
One of the noted home remedies for sprain is applying ice on the sprained area. Apply ice pack immediately to the sprain to minimize swelling and ease pain. It can be applied for 20-30 minutes at a time, 3-4 times daily.

Compression:
This kind of remedy is crucial for sprain recovery. Use dressings, bandages, or ace-wraps should be used to immobilize the sprain area and provide support]

Elevation:
Keeping the sprained area or joint elevated at the height above heart level will also provide much needed help to minimize inflammation/ swelling.

Pineapple:
Eat raw pineapple, its helps in reducing the pain and swelling

Turmeric Powder:
Put one-half teaspoon of turmeric powder with warm water twice a day.

Turmeric Juice:
Put one teaspoon in hot milk, drink before bedtime, it helps reducing pain

Ice Pack:
Apply in an injured joint until swelling reduced or subsided

Onions:
Chopped and wrap in a clean cloth and wrap it in the affected area

Almond and garlic oil:
Apply topically, massage evenly in affected area

Arnica:
In cream form, OTC, apply topically in the affected area

Lime:
Make a paste by combining one teaspoon of lime powder and one teaspoon of honey and apply in the affected area.

Cabbage:
Warm the outer leaves of a cabbage in hot water and bandage around the sprain using a piece of cloth to hold in place.

After couple of days prior to sprain occurrence, use the sprained area gently to aid in its healing process. An OTC pain remedy can be much helpful.

If after three days and the sprained area doesn’t show any recovery, consult a doctor to avoid further complications and chronic pain.

Prevention for Sprain

Avoid over bending the joints
Avoid wearing tight and high-heeled shoes
Exert extra care when walking or running in uneven grounds

If engaged in sports, always perform stretching to prevent injuries and use proper protective gears and or accessories.