Sprains Health Video

A Sprain is a tearing or stretching of the ligaments and connective tissue around a joint which can take longer to heal than muscle damage due to a lack of bloody supply. Learn more about sprains including treatments and symptoms in this medical video.

Take Action

Avoid any harmful activities
Be careful any time you exercise or play sports
Follow all of your doctor's recommendations
Wear proper foot gear

About this Author

Dr. Ulrich joined On Call Medical Group in 2006. She had previously practiced at Doctors Medical Center in Richmond, Calif., and prior to that worked with the uninsured and homeless population of San Francisco at the Haight Ashbury Free Medical Clinic. Throughout her medical career, Dr. Ulrich as also been involved in numerous medical research studies. Dr. Ulrich holds a B.S. from Harvard University, an M.P.H. for the University of California at Berkeley, and an M.D. from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.

SKYLAR ULRICH, MD: I'm Dr. Skylar Ulrich. I'm going to talk about sprains. A sprain is a tear in the microfiber of ligaments which are the tissues that connect bones to bones. A sprain can occur anywhere in the body where there is a ligament. Symptoms of a sprain generally include pain, swelling, decreased range of motion, inability to ambulate if it involves the lower extremity and extreme tenderness to palpation. The treatment of sprains differs depending on the degree of sprain. If it's a minor sprain, a local Ace wrap, as well as ice with some NSAIDs may be sufficient. A third-degree sprain may require splinting or casting as well as immobility of the affected area. Prevention of sprains is by being careful during exercise and activity, making sure you have appropriate footwear.