BASIC TRAINING COURSE . |
THE NIGERIA POLICE FORCE
TOPIC OVERVIEW .
The difference between a sprain and a strain is that a sprain injures the bands of tissue that connect two bones together, while a strain involves an injury to a muscle or to the band of tissue that attaches a muscle to a bone.
A strain is sometimes called a "pulled muscle." Depending on the level of muscle strain, it may heal within a few weeks, but reinjury can happen. A sprain is when ligaments (bands of tissue that hold bone to bone at the joints) stretch too far or tear. A sprain may can take 4–6 weeks to heal or sometimes longer.
Sprains are common and usually heal on their own. However, severe sprains that completely sever the ligament may require months of healing and possibly surgery. Do not ignore the pain of an ankle sprain or assume that there is nothing a doctor can do.
A strain is sometimes called a "pulled muscle." Depending on the level of muscle strain, it may heal within a few weeks, but reinjury can happen. A sprain is when ligaments (bands of tissue that hold bone to bone at the joints) stretch too far or tear. A sprain may can take 4–6 weeks to heal or sometimes longer.
Sprains are common and usually heal on their own. However, severe sprains that completely sever the ligament may require months of healing and possibly surgery. Do not ignore the pain of an ankle sprain or assume that there is nothing a doctor can do.
OBJECTIVES .
The objective is to explore the differences, provide an understanding of the problems and also the various treatments.
REQUIRED MATERIALS .
Students require a file and/or folder, pen and paper and this will form the basis of the student's "Best Book".
CONTENT (LESSON BODY) .
ASSESSMENT .
All NPF officers should learn, practice and understand the content of this video.
The assessment, which will be undertaken, is both a written and practical test with a final exam.
The assessment, which will be undertaken, is both a written and practical test with a final exam.
SUMMARY & TAKEAWAY .
- A sprain is a stretch and/or tear of a ligament, and is classified by severity. They typically affect the ankles, knees, wrists, and thumbs.
- Symptoms of a sprain typically include pain around the affected joint, tenderness, swelling, bruising, pain on weight-bearing, and decreased function. There may be joint instability (a perception of 'giving way') following severe injuries.
- A strain (or 'pull') is a stretch and/or tear of muscle fibres and/or tendon, and is classified by severity. They typically affect the foot, hamstring, and back.
- Symptoms of a strain typically include muscle pain, cramping, and spasm; muscle weakness, inflammation, and/or bruising.
- The risk of sprains and strains is increased in people who frequently participate in sport.
- Complications of a sprain or strain are more common with more severe injuries, and include:
- Chronic instability, loss of function, chronic pain and swelling, risk of re-injury, and post-traumatic osteoarthritis — particularly following severe sprains.
- Muscle atrophy, muscle fibrosis, and compartment syndrome — particularly following severe strains.
- The prognosis of a sprain or strain largely depends on the severity of the injury.
- Assessment of a person with a suspected sprain or strain includes:
- Asking about the mechanism and timing of injury; symptoms including severity and duration; usual physical activity level; risk factors for injury or re-injury; any previous sprain, strain, or joint instability.
- Examining for typical signs and possible complications (such as limb deformity or asymmetry/misalignment that may suggest fracture or dislocation); assessing for joint instability, ability to weight-bear and gait; and neurovascular examination.
- Considering whether X-ray is needed, to assess the extent of an injury and/or for associated injuries, or if a fracture or other complication is suspected.
- Management of a suspected sprain or strain includes:
- Arranging referral to an emergency department if there is a suspected fracture, dislocation, penetrating wound, or serious complication.
- Advising on the use of analgesia for symptom relief.
- Advising on initial 'PRICE' (protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation) self-management strategies.
- Advising on safe return to usual activities and sports, and risk factors for re-injury.
- Arranging medical review after 5–7 days, depending on clinical judgement.
- Arranging referral to physiotherapy if there are ongoing symptoms that are not improving as expected.
- Arranging referral to orthopaedics, the urgency depending on clinical judgement, if recovery is slower than expected, there are worsening or new symptoms, or symptoms are out of proportion to the mechanism of injury.
LOOK FORWARD TO .
How to treat a dislocated joint with a baby.