Sprain and Strain Treatment Specialist in Mount Pleasant, SC
If you've suffered a sprain or strain from sports, exercise, work, or an accidental fall, prompt evaluation and treatment can help reduce pain and support a faster recovery. Blake Ohlson, M.D. is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and regenerative medicine specialist providing comprehensive care for sprains, strains, and other musculoskeletal injuries in Mount Pleasant, SC. He treats patients of all activity levels, from competitive athletes to individuals with everyday injuries, using personalized treatment plans designed to restore strength, mobility, and function.
Sprains involve stretched or torn ligaments, while strains affect muscles or tendons. Although many injuries heal with conservative care, more severe ligament or tendon injuries may require advanced treatment. Dr. Ohlson performs a thorough evaluation to determine the severity of your injury and recommends the most appropriate treatment, which may include activity modification, bracing, physical therapy, regenerative medicine therapies when appropriate, or surgery for significant soft tissue damage.
Conveniently located in Mount Pleasant, Dr. Ohlson proudly serves patients throughout Charleston, Summerville, and surrounding South Carolina communities with expert orthopedic care focused on helping them safely return to work, sports, and daily activities.
What are Sprains and Strains?
Sprains and strains are injuries affecting the muscles and ligaments. A sprain is an injury or tear of one or more ligaments that commonly occurs at the wrist, knee, ankle or thumb. A strain is an injury or tears to the muscle. Strains occur commonly in the back and legs.
Causes of Sprains and Strains
Sprains and strains occur due to overstretching of the joints during sports activities and accidents such as falls or collisions. It may be due to fatigue or not warming up before an activity.
Symptoms of Sprains and Strains
Symptoms of sprains include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Bruising
- Joint stiffness
Symptoms of strains include:
- Muscle spasm and weakness
- Pain in the affected area
- swelling
- Redness
- bruising
Immediate Care for Sprains and Strains
Immediately following an injury and before being evaluated by your doctor, you should initiate the P.R.I.C.E. method of treatment.
Protection: Protect the injured area with the help of support.
Rest: Rest the affected area as more damage could result from putting pressure on the injury.
Ice: Ice should be applied over a towel to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every two to three hours during the day. Never place ice directly over the skin.
Compression: Wrapping with an elastic bandage or an elasticated tubular bandage can help to minimize the swelling and provide support to the injured area.
Elevation: Elevating the injured area above heart level will also help with swelling and pain.
Diagnosis of Sprains and Strains
Diagnosis involves a thorough physical examination. Your doctor will inspect the area of injury and see how well you move the muscle or joint. X-rays or other tests may be ordered to rule out fractures or other problems.
Treatment of Sprains and Strains
Your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce the pain and inflammation of a sprain or strain. A period of bracing may be necessary. Physiotherapy may be recommended for moderate to severe injuries. Surgery is rarely needed but may be suggested for torn ligaments and tendons.
Most sprains and strains show significant improvement in about 2 weeks. Severe injuries sometimes take months to heal. Strenuous activity should be avoided for at least 8 weeks to allow proper healing.
Why Choose Dr. Blake Ohlson for Sprain and Strain Treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC?
Sprains and strains may seem like minor injuries, but without proper diagnosis and rehabilitation they can lead to chronic pain, weakness, joint instability, or recurring injuries. Dr. Blake Ohlson provides comprehensive evaluations to accurately diagnose ligament, tendon, and muscle injuries and develop individualized treatment plans that promote optimal healing.
As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with specialized training in regenerative medicine, Dr. Ohlson offers a full range of treatment options. Depending on the severity of your injury, treatment may include activity modification, bracing, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, ultrasound-guided injections, regenerative medicine therapies when appropriate, or surgical repair for severe ligament or tendon tears. His goal is always to recommend the least invasive treatment capable of delivering the best long-term outcome.
Patients appreciate Dr. Ohlson's patient-centered approach, taking time to explain their diagnosis, expected recovery timeline, and treatment options so they can make informed decisions about their orthopedic care.
Sprains and Strains FAQs
What is the difference between a sprain and a strain?
A sprain is an injury involving stretched or torn ligaments that connect bones together, while a strain affects muscles or tendons that connect muscles to bones.
How do I know if my injury is serious?
You should seek orthopedic evaluation if you experience severe pain, significant swelling, inability to bear weight, joint instability, numbness, deformity, or symptoms that do not improve within several days.
Will I need imaging?
Depending on your symptoms and physical examination, your physician may recommend X-rays to rule out fractures. MRI or ultrasound may be used to evaluate ligament, tendon, or muscle injuries when necessary.
How long does it take for a sprain or strain to heal?
Mild injuries often improve within two to three weeks. Moderate injuries may require several weeks of rehabilitation, while severe ligament or tendon injuries can take several months to fully recover.
Will I need surgery?
Most sprains and strains heal successfully with conservative treatment. Surgery is typically reserved for complete ligament tears, significant tendon injuries, or cases where non-surgical treatment has not restored stability or function.
Can physical therapy help?
Yes. Physical therapy plays an important role in restoring flexibility, strength, balance, and joint stability while reducing the risk of future injuries.
Schedule a Sprain and Strain Evaluation in Mount Pleasant, SC
If you're experiencing pain, swelling, or limited movement after a sports injury, fall, or accident, early evaluation can help prevent long-term complications and speed your recovery. Dr. Blake Ohlson provides expert diagnosis and personalized treatment for sprains, strains, and other orthopedic injuries for patients throughout Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Summerville, and nearby South Carolina communities. Whether your injury requires conservative care or advanced orthopedic treatment, you'll receive a customized plan focused on helping you return safely to your normal activities.
Call or Request your appointment today to schedule your sprain and strain evaluation with Dr. Blake Ohlson in Mount Pleasant, SC.