Sprains vs Strains: Diagnosis and Acute Management
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the primary difference between a sprain and a strain?

  • A sprain is an acute injury, while a strain is a chronic injury.
  • A sprain involves injury to a muscle, while a strain involves injury to a ligament.
  • A sprain always requires surgical intervention, while a strain can be managed conservatively.
  • A sprain involves injury to a ligament, while a strain involves injury to a muscle. (correct)

A patient presents with ankle pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight after twisting their ankle. During the assessment, which finding would be MOST indicative of a sprain rather than a fracture?

  • Diffuse swelling and ecchymosis around the ankle joint. (correct)
  • Obvious bony deformity visible upon inspection.
  • Significant point tenderness upon palpation of the fibula.
  • Presence of a 'pop' sound at the time of injury.

What is the PRIMARY goal of the acute phase management of a sprain?

  • Begin strengthening exercises to prevent future injury.
  • Apply heat to the affected area to increase blood flow and promote healing.
  • Restore full range of motion immediately through aggressive physical therapy.
  • Control pain, minimize swelling, and maintain/regain range of motion. (correct)

A patient is diagnosed with a Grade 2 ankle sprain. Based on this classification, which of the following characteristics is MOST likely to be present?

<p>More severe tearing of the ligament, but still a stable joint. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the RICE protocol for an ankle sprain, when is it generally appropriate to transition from ice to heat application?

<p>After the first 48 hours to improve range of motion. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a suspected ankle sprain has been following the RICE protocol for 3 weeks with minimal improvement. What is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

<p>Refer the patient to an orthopedist for further evaluation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following activities is MOST important to include in patient education to prevent future sprains after recovering from an ankle sprain?

<p>Implementing proper warm-up exercises and using appropriate footwear during activities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following assessment findings would be MOST indicative of a Grade 3 sprain?

<p>Significant joint instability with complete ligament tear. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

To effectively minimize swelling in the acute phase of sprain management besides RICE protocol, what other measure is MOST appropriate?

<p>Immobilization with a splint or sling. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient reports hearing a 'pop' at the time of their ankle injury. While this can occur in various injuries, which of the following is the MOST likely implication of this symptom in the context of a sprain?

<p>Signifies a more severe ligament tear, possibly Grade 2 or 3. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the PRIMARY reason for using NSAIDs in the acute management of a sprain?

<p>To control pain and reduce inflammation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is being discharged after being treated for a Grade 2 ankle sprain. What is the MOST important instruction to give regarding weight-bearing?

<p>Weight-bearing should be progressed gradually as pain allows. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is referral to an orthopedist MOST appropriate for a patient with a sprain?

<p>For Grade 3 sprains or lack of improvement after 3 weeks of conservative treatment. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors differentiates a grade 1 sprain from a grade 2 sprain?

<p>Grade 1 sprains involve stretching or minimal tearing, whereas grade 2 sprains involve more severe tearing. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is a sprain?

Stretching or partial tear of ligaments.

What is a strain?

Injury to a muscle or tendon.

Sprain/Strain Assessment findings?

Pain, swelling, erythema (redness), ecchymosis (bruising).

Grade 1 sprain?

Stretching/minimal tear, stable joint.

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Grade 2 sprain?

More severe tear, stable joint.

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Grade 3 sprain?

Complete tear, unstable joint.

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RICE for sprains/strains?

Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.

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Sprains: Key Info

Injury to ligaments, often sports-related, ankle sprains most common (85%), males more affected.

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Sprain Symptoms

Pain, swelling, redness, bruising; possible 'pop' sound; discomfort bearing weight; limited range.

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Sprain: Differential Dx

Rule out fractures or dislocations.

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Sprain Diagnostics

X-ray if suspecting fracture.

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Acute Sprain Goal

Control pain, minimize swelling, regain ROM.

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Sprain Management

NSAIDs, RICE, immobilization, heat after 48 hours.

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Sprain Timeline

Acute: 1-3 days, Recovery: 2-6 weeks, Follow-up: 2 weeks.

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