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Strains & Sprains

What is a arm & hand strain and sprain? 

Sprains:

  1. Description: A sprain occurs when the ligaments (tissues connecting bones) are stretched or torn. Common sites include the wrist, thumb, and fingers.

  2. Types:

    • Wrist Sprain: Often caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand, leading to overstretching or tearing of the wrist ligaments.

    • Thumb Sprain: Frequently occurs from a forceful impact or twisting motion, common in skiing or contact sports.

    • Finger Sprain: Results from jamming or twisting a finger, common in ball sports

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Strains:

  1. Description: A strain occurs when the muscles or tendons (tissues connecting muscles to bones) are overstretched or torn. Common sites include the forearm, elbow, and hand.

  2. Types:

    • Forearm Strain: Often caused by repetitive motion, overuse, or lifting heavy objects, leading to injury of the forearm muscles.

    • Elbow Strain: Results from overuse or a sudden forceful movement, affecting the muscles or tendons around the elbow.

    • Hand Strain: Can occur from repetitive gripping or sudden force, affecting the muscles or tendons in the hand or fingers.

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Mechanism of Injury:

Sprains and strains typically occur due to overstretching, twisting, or direct trauma. They are common in sports, falls, or accidents where the arm or hand is forced into an unnatural position.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a Strain:

  • Pain: At the site of the injured ligament, particularly with movement.

  • Swelling: Around the affected joint.

  • Bruising: Possible discolouration due to bleeding under the skin.

  • Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the affected joint.

  • Instability: In severe sprains, the joint may feel unstable or give way.

 

Symptoms of a Sprain:

  • Pain: In the affected muscle or tendon, especially with use.

  • Swelling: Mild swelling around the injury site.

  • Muscle Spasms: Possible muscle tightness or cramping.

  • Weakness: Reduced strength in the affected area.

  • Limited Movement: Difficulty moving the muscle or tendon without pain.

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Treatment

Immediate Treatment:

  1. Rest: Avoid using the injured area to prevent further damage.

  2. Compression: Use a bandage or wrap to minimise swelling and provide support.

  3. Elevation: Keep the injured arm or hand elevated to reduce swelling.

  4. Pain Relief: NSAIDs like ibuprofen to manage pain and inflammation.

Clinical Treatment:

In the clinic, a variety of treatments may be used to address arm and hand sprains and strains:

  1. Massage Therapy:

    • Deep Tissue Massage: Helps relieve muscle tension, improve blood flow, and reduce scar tissue formation in strained muscles.

    • Cross-Friction Massage: Applied directly to ligaments and tendons to promote healing and prevent adhesions in sprains.

  2. Ultrasound Therapy:

    • Utilises sound waves to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing in sprains and strains.

  3. Dry Needling:

    • Targets trigger points in the affected muscles, relieving pain and reducing muscle tension in strains.

  4. Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM):

    • Uses specialised tools to break down scar tissue and adhesions, improving mobility and reducing pain in the injured area.

  5. Cupping Therapy:

    • Increases blood flow to the injured area, helping to reduce muscle tension and promote healing.

  6. Hot Stone Therapy:

    • Applies heat to relax the muscles, improve circulation, and reduce tension in the injured arm or hand.

  7. Rehabilitation Plans:

    • Stretching Exercises: Focused on improving flexibility and preventing stiffness in the injured area.

    • Strengthening Exercises: Designed to rebuild strength in the affected muscles and tendons, particularly after a strain.

    • Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle movements to restore joint mobility and prevent stiffness in sprains.

    • Progressive Resistance Training: Gradually increasing resistance to strengthen the muscles and ligaments, reducing the risk of future injury.

    • Bracing or Taping: Use of supports or taping techniques to stabilise the injured area during recovery.

    • Activity Modification: Guidance on how to adjust movements or activities to avoid re-injury and support healing.

By combining these treatments with a personalised rehabilitation plan, the goal is to alleviate pain, restore full function, and prevent future sprains or strains in the arm and hand.

© 2035 by Serenity Holistics

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