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Athletics » Athletic Training » Common Injuries to Muscles and Joints
Dan Peeters • Director of Athletics • Contact Dan Peeters
805.967.1266 x 113
What is the difference between a Sprain and a Strain?
A sprain is the stretching/tearing of ligaments, which are elastic-like tissues that attach to joints to keep them stable and moving in the correct directions. Common joints include the ankle, wrist, finger, knee, elbow and shoulder.
A strain (also called a muscle pull) is the stretching/tearing of muscles or the tendons that connect these muscles to the bones they move. Commonly injured muscles are the quadriceps, hamstrings, groin and rotator cuff muscles in the shoulder.
What should I do if I suspect I have a sprain or a strain?
Begin R.I.C.E. as soon as possible.
Rest to avoid further injury and begin the healing process
Ice 20 minutes every 2 hours. This helps to decrease swelling and pain
(Never use a chemical pack on bare skin)
Compression Use an ACE bandage to control swelling and give mild support.
Wrap from the toes or hand towards the heart and not too tight.
Elevation raise the injured area above the heart. This helps to decrease swelling.
After about 48 hours, start some light stretching exercises.? This will help the healing process. Come into the training room for specific exercises.
Can I use heat to treat a sprain or strain?
DO NOT use any form of heat (heating pad, bath, Jacuzzi) or massage (including Icy Hot, Tiger Balm) for at least 48 hours after injury. This would only increase swelling and keep you from playing longer.? Check with the ATC before beginning heat therapy.
Can I take medications?
You can take over the counter medication such as Advil, Tylenol or Aleve to help with the pain. DO NOT take aspirin because it can thin the blood and increase bleeding or swelling. You should not take any medication before participating in activities without checking with the ATC first.
Should I go to the Doctor?
Go and see a doctor if the pain increases or the injury does not get better. Be sure to bring the ATC a note from your doctor if you go see one. The ATC cannot return an athlete to play without written clearance or instructions from the treating doctor. Also, please make sure you come into the Training Room each day for treatment (ice, exercises, taping, etc) until the injury is resolved.
If you are have questions call Kirk Conception, our Athletic Training Coordinator during the day at Hayashida and Associates 805.685.1755. In the evenings or on weekends, call Kristy Lash (ATC) on her cell phone 512.680.7408.
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