5 Benefits of a Knee Brace for Arthritis
Knee arthritis can make everyday activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or simply standing, downright painful. Can a knee brace really help? And what type of knee brace should you consider?
Difference between Sprains and Tears?
While sprains and tears are similar injuries, they are not exactly the same.
Sprains
When a ligament is overstretched or torn upon an injury, such as falling, twisting of a joint, or an impact to the body, it is referred to as a sprain.
Sprains oftenheal in a period ranging from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the injury, and can be –
- Mild sprain: The ligament is stretched but the joint is still stable
- Moderate sprain: The ligament is partially torn but not completely separated from the bone; the joint becomes unstable
- Severe sprain: The ligament has completely torn or separated from the bone
Sprain Symptoms
- Hearing or feeling a ‘pop’ in your joint during injury
- Localized pain
- Inflammation and swelling
- Bruising
- Limited range of motion
Tears
Tears occur when a ligament, tendon, or muscle is torn. Tears may result from the same injuries that cause a sprain but tears are more serious injuries.
Minor tears may heal in a few weeks while severe tendon and muscle tears need several months. Severe tears may even require surgery to repair.
Tear Symptoms
- Sudden, severe pain
- ‘Popping’ sound at the time of the injury
- Loose joint
- The affected area is unable to bear weight
- Instant bruising
- Joint Immobility
- Visual deformity
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