Diseases and Conditions

Sprains

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms will vary, depending on the severity of the injury, and may include:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Limited ability to move the affected joint
  • Hearing or feeling a "pop" in your joint at the time of injury

When to see the doctor

Mild sprains can be treated at home. But the injuries that cause sprains can also cause serious injuries, such as fractures. You should see a doctor if you:

  • Can't move or bear weight on the affected joint
  • Have pain directly over the bones of an injured joint
  • Have numbness in any part of the injured area