Sprains & Strains

Sprains & Strains services offered in Fort Worth, Southlake and Weatherford, TX

Sprains and strains often happen suddenly, causing pain, swelling, and limited movement that can disrupt your daily routine. Whether the injury occurs during sports, exercise, work, or a simple misstep, these soft tissue injuries shouldn’t be ignored. The board-certified orthopedic specialists at Texas Health Care Fort Worth’s Bone & Joint Clinic in Fort Worth, Southlake, and Weatherford, Texas, carefully evaluate sprains and strains and create personalized treatment plans focused on healing and recovery. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

Sprains & Strains Q&A

What are sprains and strains?

Sprains and strains are common soft tissue injuries that affect the ligaments, muscles, and tendons that support your joints and allow movement.

A sprain occurs when a ligament — the tissue that connects bones at a joint — is stretched or torn. A strain involves an injury to a muscle or tendon, which connects muscle to bone. These injuries often happen due to sudden twisting motions, falls, overuse, or improper lifting techniques.

Sprains and strains can affect many areas of the body, including the ankle, knee, wrist, shoulder, neck, and lower back. While some injuries are mild, others can significantly limit movement and make everyday activities painful or difficult without proper care.

What are the symptoms of sprains and strains?

Symptoms vary based on the location and severity of the injury, but they’re often noticeable and uncomfortable. You may experience:

Pain or tenderness in the injured area
Swelling or inflammation
Bruising or discoloration
Stiffness or limited range of motion
Muscle weakness or spasms
Instability in the affected joint
Difficulty bearing weight or using the injured limb

More severe sprains or strains may cause sharp pain, significant swelling, or an inability to move the joint or muscle. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek an evaluation at Texas Health Care Fort Worth’s Bone & Joint Clinic to rule out more serious injuries.

How are sprains and strains treated?

Treatment at Texas Health Care Fort Worth’s Bone & Joint Clinic depends on the severity of your injury and the tissues involved. The primary goal is to reduce pain, support healing, and restore normal movement. Common treatments include:

Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
Bracing, splinting, or support
Activity modification
Anti-inflammatory medication
Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and stability

In certain cases, your provider may recommend advanced therapies such as corticosteroid injections or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to support healing. Surgery is rarely needed but may be considered for severe or persistent injuries.

If pain, swelling, or limited movement is interfering with your daily life, don’t wait. Early evaluation and proper treatment can help prevent long-term complications and speed recovery.

Call Texas Health Care Fort Worth’s Bone & Joint Clinic today or schedule an appointment online for expert care.