Sprains are caused due to stretching or tearing of ligaments that attach the joint bones. They can be treated by resting and icing the area that has been injured, followed by the use of a device or a bandage for compression and administration of appropriate medication for quick healing. This therapy, also called the R.I.C.E therapy, is meant for the first forty-eight hours after injury is caused. However, it must be followed by physical therapy and appropriate exercises to ensure complete recovery.

Physical therapy is a part of rehabilitation regime that constitutes the second phase of sprain treatment. It includes gentle exercises to be done regularly after the swelling and pain have subsided. Custom programs are usually developed by physical therapists after examining the patient’s condition. The therapy may continue for several days, weeks, or months, based on the kind of injury caused. The exercises recommended by the therapists must also be continued at home on a regular basis for effective results.

Physical therapy, thus, helps to reduce stiffness, improve the range of motion, build strength, and enhance flexibility at the injured joint. Knee and ankle sprains are the most common among all injuries. Physical therapy for the former mainly includes various motion exercises. The patient is usually asked to write different alphabets in air with his big toe. Therapy for knee sprains, on other hand, mainly includes balancing and weight-bearing exercises. The therapy for both these kinds of sprains usually last for many weeks. While a moderate sprain may need 3-6 weeks of therapy, a severe sprain requires at least 8-12 months of rehabilitation for absolute recovery. Complete healing is usually a slow process and happens only if the treatment is done properly.

More Articles :

• Care And Treatment Of Ankle Sprains
• Compression For Sprains
• Physical Therapy For Sprains
• Prevention Of Sprains