Sprains and strains

Common sprain symptoms* include the following:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Reduced range of motion
• Swelling
• Trouble putting weight on the joint

Common strain symptoms include the following:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Reduced range of motion
• Spasms
• Swelling

A MinuteClinic provider can assess the injury, which includes asking about medical history and performing a physical examination. They will discuss treatment options, which may include over-the-counter medication and guidance on activity level. They may refer someone to a specialist, if needed. They can also provide information about how to avoid sprains and strains in the future.

1. You may have to answer a few questions to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

   If you made your appointment online:
   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

   If you made your appointment in the clinic:
   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

   If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
   To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and ZIP code to join the visit.

3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

Sprain injuries happen when a ligament is torn or stretched. Ligaments hold bones together at a joint and can be injured during a fall or from an impact. Common causes of sprains include the following:

• Falls
• Rolling an ankle
• Sports injuries
• Twisting or pivoting motions

Strains happen when a muscle or tendon gets stretched or torn. Some happen suddenly, like during sporting events. Others can happen slowly over time through repetitive stress or overuse. Certain people are at an elevated risk for repetitive strain injuries:

• Athletes
• Musicians
• People who sit at a desk for long periods of time
• People with physically demanding jobs
• Anyone who performs the same task over long periods of time

A sports injury is a type of injury that typically happens while exercising or playing a sport. From athletes to casual walkers, sports injuries can keep people from doing their favorite activities. Fortunately, these injuries are treatable and often preventable:

• Achilles tendonitis
• Ankle sprain
• Groin pull (strain)
• Knee injuries
• Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
• Rolled ankles
• Shin splints
• Sprained finger or thumb
• Tennis elbow (epicondylitis)

A common way to treat sprains and strains is the RICE method:

• Rest: Reduce daily activities and stop regular exercise for a few days.
• Ice: Ice the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, several times every day.
• Compression: Wrap the area to reduce swelling.
• Elevation: Raise the affected area so that it’s above the heart. This reduces swelling.

A MinuteClinic provider can assess the injury, which includes asking about medical history and performing a physical examination. They will discuss treatment options, which may include over-the-counter medication and guidance on activity level. They may refer someone to a specialist, if needed. They can also provide information about how to avoid sprains and strains in the future.