Version July 2025
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What is a sprain? —
This is when a joint is bent too far in 1 direction.
Inside joints are tough bands of tissue called "ligaments." These hold different bones together. During a sprain, 1 or more of the ligaments stretches too far or even tears.
What are the symptoms of a sprain? —
Symptoms can include pain, tenderness, swelling, and bruising at the joint. The joint might feel unsteady. It can be hard to use the joint or move it in certain directions.
Will I need tests? —
A doctor or nurse should be able to tell if you have a sprain by doing an exam and learning about your injury. They might move the joint in different directions to see what hurts and to check how loose the joint feels.
In some cases, the doctor might order an X-ray to check for broken bones. Some doctors might use an ultrasound to look at the ligaments. Ultrasound is an imaging test that creates pictures of the inside of the body.
How is a sprain treated? —
Treatment is easy to remember if you think of the word "PRICE":
●Protect – To avoid making your injury worse, you might be able to wrap it with an elastic bandage. Depending on how bad your sprain is, you might also get a brace or splint.
●Rest – To rest the joint, avoid activities that cause pain. In some cases, this means using crutches and staying off of your feet or using a sling.
●Ice – Apply a cold gel pack, bag of ice, or bag of frozen vegetables on your joint every 1 to 2 hours, for 15 minutes each time. Put a thin towel between the ice (or other cold object) and your skin. Use the ice (or other cold object) for at least 6 hours after your injury. Some people find it helpful to ice longer, even up to 2 days.
●Compression – This means pressure. If possible, you want to have your joint under slight pressure by having it wrapped in an elastic bandage. This helps reduce swelling and supports the joint. Your doctor or nurse will show you how to wrap your joint. Be careful not to wrap it too tight, as this could cut off the blood flow.
●Elevation – This means keeping your joint raised up above the level of your heart. To do this, you can use some pillows or blankets while you are lying down, or put the joint on a table or chair while you are sitting.
You can also take medicines to relieve pain, such as acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol), ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve).
People with a mild sprain do not usually need to use a splint. But those with a more severe sprain sometimes do. A splint helps keep the joint from moving.
In rare cases, doctors suggest surgery to repair a torn ligament caused by a sprain.
How else can I help my recovery? —
Most people heal more quickly if they do certain exercises. Usually, gentle exercises can be started after a few days, once swelling and pain have improved. The right exercises for you depend on what kind of sprain you have and how serious it is. Ask your doctor which exercises you should do. In some cases, they might recommend working with a physical therapist (exercise expert).
Over time, slowly increase the activities you do. It might be easier to do some activities if you wear a brace or splint on your joint as it heals.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●Your pain or swelling is getting worse.
●Your fingers or toes are blue or gray, and numb.
●Your joint feels more unstable or wobbly.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Knee sprain (The Basics)
Patient education: Ankle sprain (The Basics)
Patient education: Foot sprain (The Basics)
Patient education: Common wrist injuries (The Basics)
Patient education: Common finger injuries (The Basics)
Patient education: Common toe injuries (The Basics)
Patient education: How to care for your cast (The Basics)
Patient education: How to care for your child's cast (The Basics)
Patient education: How to care for a splint (The Basics)
Patient education: Cold therapy for pain (The Basics)
