Sprains and Strains | Diagnosis & Treatments
How your child’s doctor diagnoses a sprain or strain
Your child’s doctor will examine the injured area and ask when and how your child’s injury occurred, and ask about any prior injuries. If the injury is mild, an x-ray may not be taken. If your child’s injury is more severe, a variety of diagnostic tests may be done to get detailed images of the injury. These include:
How are sprains and strains treated?
Initial treatment for strains and sprains includes R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation).
Other treatment options may include:
- medications to help control pain and swelling
- restricting activities
- your child may need a splint or cast
- crutches or a wheelchair may be needed
- physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the injured muscles, ligaments, and tendons is sometimes recommended
- rarely, surgery is needed if the injury is reoccurring, there's persistent pain, or if a muscle, tendon, or ligament is badly torn
The good news is that sprains and strains heal quickly in children and teenagers. But it's important for your child to follow any activity restrictions to prevent re-injury.
