Sprain facts for kids
A sprain is a type of injury in which a person hurts the part really bad, but it is not broken. It has common side affects of a broken bone, but it is less serious.
Degrees
The first degree is only a minor tear or stretch of a ligament.
The second degree is a tear of a ligament, which is usually followed by pain or swelling.
The third degree is a complete rupture.
Signs and symptoms
The typical signs and symptoms associated with a sprain are the main signs of inflammation:
- localized pain
- swelling
- loss of function
Joints involved
Although any joint can experience a sprain, some of the more common include:
- the ankle. It is the most common.
- the knee. Perhaps one of the more talked about sprains is that to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee. This is a disabling sprain common to athletes, especially basketball, soccer, and judo players.
- the fingers.
- the wrist. The wrist is also a popular sprain area.
Prevention
Sprains can best be prevented by proper use of safety equipment (wrist, ankle guards), warm-ups and cool-downs (including stretching), being aware of your surroundings and maintaining strength and flexibility. Physical conditioning is the best way to avoid or lessen the degree of sprains.
Images for kids
See also
In Spanish: Esguince para niños
