Massage Therapy & Bodywork	Aromatherapy & Essential Oils	A-Z of Sports Injuries	Massage Article Archive

Sprains

A sprain is a joint injury that occurs when a joint is wrenched and forced beyond its natural range of motion. A sprain affects the soft tissues around the joint - liagments, muscles, tendons and so on. Symptoms include pain, swelling and loss of movement. The most commonly affected areas are the ankles and wrists. Most sportsmen and women will suffer at some time from a sprained ankle - runners, tennis and squash players, football and rugby players are particularly susceptible. Awkward twists, sudden impacts and falls are common causes.

Sprain Treatment

Apply ice packs or cold compresses immediately until the acute stage is over. Essential oils of lavender and chamomile are excellent in compresses for giving pain relief and reducing inflammation. Raise the limb and rest it as much as possible. Strapping is often necessary to provide support. Massage can be applied daily after the tenderness has subsided.

Ankle Sprain

After the acute phase effleurage first from knee to thigh and then from ankle to knee to help disperse the swelling. As the injury heals gently knead and friction, gradually increasing the pressure. Deep friction applied after five or six days helps to prevent the formation of scar tissue and adhesions. When the pain has subsided gently mobilize the ankle. Dorsiflex, plantar flex and circumduct the ankle to help to restore full movement.