Sprains & Strains

Sprains & Strains Care at 24/7 Heights Emergency Room in Houston, TX

Sprains and strains are common injuries that can disrupt your daily activities and cause significant discomfort. At Heights Emergency Room in Houston, TX, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care to help you recover quickly and effectively. Understanding the difference between sprains and strains, and knowing how to treat them, is essential for a speedy recovery.

Understanding Sprains and Strains

• Sprains: A sprain occurs when the ligaments—the tissues that connect bones to each other—are stretched or torn. Common areas affected include the ankles, knees, and wrists. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected joint.
• Strains: A strain involves an injury to a muscle or tendon—the tissues that connect muscles to bones. Strains often result from overstretching or overusing the muscle. Symptoms include muscle pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty using the affected muscle.

Immediate Care and Treatment

1. Rest: Give the injured area time to heal by avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain. Resting is crucial for preventing further damage.
2. Ice: Applying ice to the injured area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Use an ice pack wrapped in a cloth and apply it for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first 48 hours.
3. Compression: Wrapping the injured area with an elastic bandage can help control swelling. Be sure not to wrap it too tightly, as this can restrict blood flow.
4. Elevation: Keep the injured area elevated above the level of your heart to help reduce swelling. This can be achieved by propping the limb up on pillows when sitting or lying down.
5. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

Professional Care at Heights Emergency Room

If your injury is severe or does not improve with initial care, seek professional medical attention at Heights Emergency Room. Our experienced medical team is equipped to provide advanced treatments and interventions:

• Diagnostic Imaging: We use X-rays or MRIs to assess the extent of the injury and rule out fractures or more serious conditions.
• Advanced Pain Management: For more severe pain, we offer prescription medications and localized treatments to provide relief.
• Physical Therapy: Our team can refer you to physical therapy services to help restore function, strength, and flexibility to the injured area.
• Injury-Specific Treatments: Depending on the severity of the sprain or strain, we may recommend specialized treatments, including immobilization with braces or splints, or in rare cases, surgical intervention.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Visit Heights Emergency Room if you experience:

• Severe pain or swelling that does not improve.
• Inability to move the affected joint or muscle.
• Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or fever.
• A noticeable deformity or inability to bear weight on the injured area.

Sprains and strains, while common, require proper care to ensure effective healing and prevent long-term damage. At Heights Emergency Room in Houston, TX, our team is committed to providing prompt and expert care for your injury. If you experience a sprain or strain, follow initial self-care steps and seek professional medical attention if necessary. Our goal is to help you get back to your regular activities as quickly and safely as possible.