A strain occurs when muscle fibers or tendons (which connect muscle to bone) are torn or overstretched. Strains are a common type of sports related injury, but they can occur in the course of every day activities as well.
Sprains occur when a ligament is torn or stretched abnormally. Ligaments are tough bands of connective tissue that hold bones together at joints. Torn or loose ligaments can lead to long-term joint instability and pain.
Hamstring Strain
Hamstring strain is the result of damage to one or more of the hamstring muscles. It is a common injury in sports that involve frequent sprinting or jumping such as track & field, football and soccer. Symptoms of a hamstring strain include a sharp pain in the back of the thigh, pain when bending forward with straightened knees, and, in some cases, swelling and difficulty walking.
To treat a hamstring strain, manual therapies may include one, or a combination of, the following:
ART (Active Release Technique)
Calf Strain
Calf strain is characterized by a sharp pain and tightening at the back of the calf muscles. Calf muscle strains are the result of injury to the gastrocnemius and/or soleus muscles. In addition to pain, a calf strain may cause swelling and difficulty walking.
To treat a calf strain, manual therapies may include one, or a combination of, the following:
Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are a common injury in sports that require you to plant your foot and shift your weight, like soccer, and in activities that take place on uneven terrain, such as hiking and trail running. Ankle sprains result from the stretching or tearing of any of the 3 ligaments that support and connect the bones of the ankle. The severity of the sprain depends on how many of the ligaments are injured and how badly they are damaged. Swelling, bruising, pain, and a lack of mobility in the ankle joint are the hallmarks of an ankle sprain. Once the primary inflammation subsides, however, the sprain may lead to long-term weakness and instability in the ankle joint, increasing the risk of repeating the injury. Stretching and strengthening exercises that emphasize balance can help to prevent recurrent ankle sprains.
To treat an ankle sprain, manual therapies may include one, or a combination of, the following:
ART (Active Release Technique)
Corrective Exercise to strengthen the muscles supporting the joint and improve balance