Some of the most common injuries to the feet, ankles and lower limbs include sprains, strains and fractures. What can be tricky about these injuries, however, is that their symptoms can often be very similar, making it difficult to distinguish among them.
Understanding the differences between these common injuries is crucial to providing the right treatment and management. Use this guide to gain a better understanding of sprains, strains and fractures and better recognize when it might be time to see a specialist rather than take care of an injury at home.
Sprain
A sprain involves an injury to a ligament, the tissues connecting bones at a joint. Sprains are often caused by twisting or rolling a joint in an awkward way, particularly in areas like the ankles and knees.
The most common symptoms of a sprain include:
- Pain or tenderness of the affected joint.
- Swelling and bruising.
- Joint instability or inability to bear weight.
- Reduced joint mobility.
Most sprains can be treated at home by resting the affected joint, applying ice to reduce swelling and using a brace or compression bandage to support the joint as it heals. Gradually resume movement and more strenuous physical activities as your body heals, being careful not to push your body beyond its limits.
If you are still experiencing pain, discomfort or reduced mobility, contact us so that one of our experienced podiatrists can assess your injury.
Strain
Strains involve an injury to a muscle or tendon, the tissues that connect muscles to bones. Strains most often occur when muscles or tendons have been overstretched or torn as a result of excessive force or overuse. While strains can happen to any muscle group, some of the most common areas for strains to occur include the calf and hamstring.
Symptoms of strains include:
- Pain or tenderness in the affected muscle.
- Swelling and bruising.
- Muscle spasms or weakness.
- Limited range of motion.
In many cases, strains can heal on their own without medical intervention. Like with sprains, strains require rest and support in order to properly heal. You can also apply ice packs and keep the area elevated to help reduce swelling.
Fracture
A fracture is a break or crack in a bone and is often caused by high-impact trauma or stress. Fractures can range from minor hairline cracks to complete breaks and can occur in any bone in the body. Fractures might also occur simultaneously with joint or ligament injuries.
Some signs of a fractured bone include:
- Sudden severe pain at the site of the injury.
- Swelling and bruising.
- A deformity or unusual angle in the affected area.
- Inability to move the affected area.
- A grating sensation or sound when moving the affected limb.
Because fractures can range from very small hairline breaks to larger, more serious breaks, these symptoms may not occur with every fracture and it is not always obvious when a smaller fracture occurs. For this reason, it is important to seek an evaluation from an orthopedic surgeon following an injury where a fracture may have occurred.
If you have an injury that is not healing on its own, call our Gaithersburg office at 301-948-2995 or contact us online to schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists.