Sprains

A sprain is a complete or incomplete tear in the ligaments that surrounds a joint. This is common among athletes especially basketball players. Affected joints are usually found in the ankle, knee, wrist, thumb, shoulder, neck and lower back. As a result, from a wrenching motion that disrupts the stabilizing action of ligaments. A blood vessel is being rupture and produces edema in the affected part.

Manifestations of sprains are pain and discomfort especially on joint movement. Ecchymoses and edema are also present. Decrease joint motion and function, feeling of joint looseness with severe pain. A radiograph will be performing to rule out dislocation and fracture.

For the management of sprain teach the client to keep affected extremity elevated above the level of the heart as much as possible to help decrease edema. Instruct the client to apply ice to the affected extremity for two hours then warm compress for the next twenty-four hours to promote proper blood circulation. Perform range-of-motion exercises for all unaffected extremities. Apply treatment modalities like slings, walkers and crutches. Perform activities of daily living within therapeutic limits of the musculoskeletal disorder.

Pain medications is given when the pain scale of client range from three to four on a pain scale of one to ten. Comfort measures such as guided imagery, relaxation techniques and biofeedback needs to be implemented.

Instruct the client to notify the physician or any health care provider if any of the following signs occur:

Increased pain and not relieved with prescribed medications

Skin is cold when touched

Increase swelling and edema of the affected extremity.

Inability to move fingers and toes on affected extremity.

Any tingling, numbness or abnormal sensation in affected extremity.

Any diminished capillary refill.

Some of the medications prescribed by health care providers for musculoskeletal problems are:

Antibiotics like tetracycline and penicillin should be given to treat bacteria that will cause further infection but before giving these medications allergies for penicillin needs to be assess. Excessive intake of antibiotics caused superinfection. The maximum days for taking antibiotics take five days and follow up check when needed.

Heparin an anticoagulant will prevent thrombosis when a cast or sling is present this will be administer through subcutaneous for faster absorption.

Antiresorptive therapies were only given to clients with musculoskeletal problems because this treatment is exclusively promoted bone resorption and reabsorption of calcium.

Nonopiod analgesics like acetaminophen to treat pain this can be purchased without a prescription and consider as over the counter but take note that low dose will be indicated to avoid drug tolerance and drug dependability.

Increase intake of vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and calcium supplements to increase bone density.