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Sprains and Strains Health Article
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Author Info: Tish Davidson A.M., Thomson Gale, Gale, Detroit, Gale Encyclopedia of Children's Health, 2006 |
Prognosis
Moderate sprains heal within two to four weeks, but it can take months to recover from severe ligament tears. Until the early 2000s, tearing the ligaments of the knee meant the end to an athlete's career. Subsequent improved surgical and rehabilitative techniques offer the possibility of complete recovery. However, once a joint has been sprained, it never is as strong as it was before.
Prevention
Sprains and strains can be prevented by warming-up before exercising, using proper lifting techniques, wearing properly fitting shoes, and taping or bracing the joint.
Parental concerns
Parents should be aware that repeated spraining of a joint weakens it. It may be necessary for the child to do exercises to strengthen the joint after a serious sprain. Parents should allow plenty of time for strains and sprains to heal before allowing their child to return to strenuous athletics.
KEY TERMS
Ligament—A type of tough, fibrous tissue that connects bones or cartilage and provides support and strength to joints.
BOOKS
DeLee, Jesse C., and David Drez. DeLee and Drez's Orthopaedic Sports Medicine, 2nd ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2003.
WEB SITES
Grayson, Charlotte. "Understanding Sprains and Strains—The Basics." WebMD, March 1, 2002. Available online at <http://my.webmd.com/content/article/8/1680_54419.htm> (accessed October 14, 2004).
Wedro, Benjamin C. "Sprains and Strains." eMedicine Consumer Health, 2003. Available online at <www.emedicinehealth.com/fulltext/5715.htm> (accessed October 14, 2004).
Tish Davidson, A.M.
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