Many types of injuries occur all over the body that can be greatly improved with chiropractic care. Among these are sprains and strains. The two words sound similar, and many of the symptoms are similar as well, but they must be treated differently. At Chiro-Med Health & Wellness in Orland Park, Dr. Miller has treated sprains and strains for several years.
Basic Differences Between Sprains and Strains
With a sprain, ligaments are stretched or torn. Ligaments are made from fibrous tissue and connect bones near the joints. Strains stretch and tear muscles and tendons. Tendons link muscles to the bones.
Both sprains and strains cause pain and discomfort, but it is the nature of the pain that can help determine which injury you have. With sprains, it is more likely that any pain you feel will be accompanied by bruising, stiffness, and swelling. Typically, these injuries happen while participating in sports or other similar activities. Gentle motion exercises, along with a combination of rest, ice, compression, and elevation are common as the injury heals.
With strains, there are more likely to be muscle spasms than general stiffness. Over-exerting or stressing muscles in a way that they are not used to can result in a sprain. Strains commonly occur after lifting too much or using improper techniques. Our chiropractor can determine if an injury is likely a strain by testing the muscle's response to stretching or contracting and whether it intensifies discomfort.
Treating Sprains and Strains
At Chiro-Med Health and Wellness Centers in Orland Park our chiropractor, Dr. Miller runs full diagnostics of all injuries to determine the best possible treatment. In addition to treating the immediate injury, work with each patient on ways to strengthen areas that may be vulnerable to sprains and strains to help prevent those injuries from recurring. Regular chiropractic adjustments will relieve your pain, restore your range of motion, and improve your body’s natural ability to heal itself.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Chiropractor in Orland Park
To learn more about how chiropractic care can help with the healing process, contact us at Chiro-Med Health and Wellness Centers in Orland Park, IL at (708) 403 2727 to schedule an appointment.
