Physical Therapy in Farmingdale

Here at Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, providers of sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale, NY, we see high rates of patients coming in with sprains and strains. These injuries are very difficult to self-diagnose so it is important to visit with a physical therapist in order to discern the nature of the injury. Here are the most common differences between a sprain and a strain:

What Is A Sprain?

A sprain is caused by damage to ligaments, which are the connective tissues that hold bones together. These injuries commonly occur at the wrist, knee, and ankle. Sprains are caused by trauma that hyperextends or dislocates a joint.

What Is A Strain?

A strain is caused by injury to your muscles or tendons, which are the tissue that connects muscles to bone. This type of injury is a result of overstretching of the muscles, which results in the overexertion of muscle fibers. Strains usually occur in the back, shoulder, and hamstring muscles.

In simplest terms, a sprain involves a ligament and a joint and a strain involves a muscle and its tendon.

Key Differences In Their Treatment

Treatment of strains and sprains can be similar. Treatment includes:

1) Placing ice on the injury for 20 minutes at a time. It is often advised to do this 4 to 8 times a day.

2) Compress the injury using bandages.

3) Elevate the injured limb.

4) If pain does not subside or you have mobility issues, you may need the help of a physician who will be able to recommend the appropriate treatment.

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

A physical therapist who provides sports injury rehabilitation in Farmingdale, NY will be able to examine your injury and provide a personalized action plan to meet your needs. The benefits of seeing a physical therapist over attempting to heal on your own provides a more effective and efficient recovery time. Because it is difficult to self-diagnose your injury, you may not be doing everything you can to aid in the health of your injured body part.

Utilizing a combination of modalities and exercises, our team will be able to help strengthen your supportive body tissues as well as aid in your body’s natural healing process reducing your chance for reinjury.

How Farmingdale Physical Therapy East Can Help.