Sprains and Strains Treatment in Mukilteo, WA
A rolled ankle, a pulled back muscle, or a strained hamstring can happen in an instant, during a game, at work, or simply stepping off a curb. At Sound Family & Sports Chiropractic, we help patients recover from sprains and strains with hands-on care that reduces pain, speeds healing, and helps prevent the injury from happening again.
What Is the Difference Between a Sprain and a Strain?
- Sprain: A stretch or tear of a ligament, the tough tissue that connects bone to bone at a joint. Ankles, knees, and wrists are commonly sprained.
- Strain: A stretch or tear of a muscle or tendon, the tissue that connects muscle to bone. Strains often affect the lower back, neck, hamstrings, and groin.
Both are graded from mild (overstretched fibers) to severe (a complete tear).
Common Causes
- Sports and exercise, especially sudden twists, jumps, and changes in direction
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Lifting heavy objects improperly at home or work
- Auto accidents, including whiplash
- Overuse and fatigue
- Muscle imbalances and poor flexibility
Symptoms of Sprains and Strains
- Pain and tenderness
- Swelling and bruising
- Muscle spasms and stiffness
- Limited range of motion
- Weakness or instability in the joint
How Chiropractic Care Helps You Heal
Proper care helps injured tissue heal strong and flexible instead of stiff and prone to re-injury. Dr. Monte Alton may recommend:
- Tool-assisted soft tissue mobilization to break up scar tissue and support proper tissue remodeling
- Chiropractic adjustments of the spine and extremities to restore joint motion
- Ice, heat, and electric stimulation to reduce pain and swelling
- Progressive stretching and strengthening exercises
- Guidance on safely returning to sports and daily activities
Athletes can also benefit from our sports injury treatment and sports chiropractic care. Ongoing joint pain after an old sprain can also be addressed.
When to Seek Urgent Care
Get immediate medical attention if you cannot bear weight, the joint looks deformed, you heard a pop with severe swelling, or you have numbness below the injury.
Recover Stronger
Call Sound Family & Sports Chiropractic at (425) 267-0787 to schedule an evaluation for your sprain or strain, or explore other conditions we treat.
Sprains and Strains FAQs
What is the difference between a sprain and a strain?
A sprain is an injury to a ligament, which connects bone to bone, while a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon, which connects muscle to bone.
Can a chiropractor treat sprains and strains?
Yes. Chiropractors treat sprains and strains with soft tissue mobilization, adjustments, therapeutic modalities, and rehab exercises.
Should I use ice or heat for a sprain?
Ice is typically used in the first 48 to 72 hours to reduce swelling. Heat may be helpful later to relax muscles and improve blood flow.
How long does a sprain or strain take to heal?
Mild sprains and strains may heal within a few weeks, while more severe injuries can take several weeks to months.
Can soft tissue mobilization help a strain?
Yes. Tool-assisted soft tissue mobilization breaks up scar tissue and helps injured muscles and tendons heal properly.
How can I prevent future sprains and strains?
Warm up before activity, stretch regularly, strengthen supporting muscles, use proper lifting techniques, and address muscle imbalances.
How do I schedule treatment for a sprain or strain?
Call Sound Family & Sports Chiropractic at (425) 267-0787 or request an appointment online.