Sprains and Strains
We usually think of ankles and wrists. But backs, necks and shoulders suffer from sprains and strains and often take months to treat. A sprain is a stretched ligament. A sprain occurs when a ligament, which holds two bones together is stretched beyond it's normal range of motion.
Strains are stretch injuries in muscles. And since muscles make up 40% of bodyweight, a strained muscle can seriously limit motion and activity.
Joints are designed to allow us to twist, bend and turn. Every joint has a normal range of motion. When a joint is forced to go farther the result is usually a strain or a sprain.
Sports is a common cause of strains and sprains. But we are all vulnerable to these injuries by simply walking, running, tripping and falling.
In order to function well muscles and joints need to be warmed up so that they are more flexible. If not warmed up muscles can be strained. Overuse or awkward motions can also strain muscles.
A common cause of back pain is lifting without bending at the knees and not using the leg muscles to absorb the weight. Most people recognize a chiropractic doctors expertise in the area of neck and back pain. But more and more patients are turning to chiropractic doctors for treatment of sprained ankles, wrists, shoulders and knees.
A variety of treatments are used including manipulation, ice, heat, ultrasound, muscle stimulation and massage.