Primary Care

Self-Care Tips | Sprains and Strains

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A sprain is an injury to a ligament—either a stretch or a tear. A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon—either a stretch or a tear.

Symptoms of a sprain or strain

Sprain

• Pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Bruising
• Trouble using the joint

 Strain

• Pain
• Muscle weakness or spasms
• Swelling
• Cramps
• Trouble moving the muscle

What you can do to treat a sprain or strain

• Rest the injured area
• Ice the area for up to 20 minutes every two hours
• Compress the area with a loosely wrapped elastic bandage
• Elevate the injured arm or leg
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers

When to call your primary care provider

• Swelling does not subside within two days
• The area becomes red, warm or more painful
• You have a temperature over 100°F
• The pain doesn't go away after several weeks

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