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Stretching: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
Sprains are traumatic injuries of the ligamentous apparatus of the joints, accompanied by their anatomical changes, but without disruption of integrity. The most commonly observed stretching capsules and ligaments, the most active in the functional plan - the ankle and. Wrist band. When stretching, the ligaments remain anatomically intact, but their outward stretching subsequently does not allow them to shrink rapidly. In addition, in the thickness of the ligaments, hemorrhages and tears form, which lead to an additional disruption of the function.
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What causes stretching?
The cause of stretching is the movement or traction, somewhat exceeding the physiological possibilities of elasticity of tissues. The most common stretching occurs in the region of the joints - wrist, knee, ankle.
Symptoms of Stretching
The stretch clinically resembles a bruise: pain, bruising, swelling in the joint area, impaired function during physical exertion. When palpation there is a sharp increase in pain in the area of attachment of ligaments and an attempt at passive movement in the joint. There may be a presence of hemarthrosis and synovitis.
The pathoanatomical picture of the stretch is close to bruising, supplemented by the breaking and rupture of individual fibers of injured tissues. The injured person is concerned about pain in the place of damage and restriction of functions.
Where does it hurt?
Diagnosis of stretching
Anamnesis
A characteristic mechanism of injury in history.
Examination and physical examination
During the examination, a swelling, edema, and possibly a small local hemorrhage in the form of a bruise in the area of injury are detected. Here, the pain is revealed by palpation and movement, which repeats the mechanism of injury. Limb functions are limited due to pain. Rotational movements are especially painful.
Laboratory and instrumental research
On radiographs, bone pathologies are not defined.
Differential diagnosis of stretching
For differential diagnosis with ligament ruptures, radiography is performed with the load on the joint (support). When stretching, there is no x-ray abnormality of the anatomy of the joint. If there is a gap, there is a discrepancy in the area of syndesmosis or there are signs of joint instability.
X-ray diagnostics is required to exclude a detachment fracture.
Who to contact?
Treatment of stretching
The treatment of soft tissue stretching is no different from treating bruises.
Estimated period of incapacity for work
The terms of treatment and rehabilitation are mainly from 1 to 4 weeks.
Drugs