How to prevent sprains: advice from Elytis Hospital specialists

Sprains, those stretching or tearing of the ligaments that connect the bones together, are extremely common and can affect anyone, regardless of age or level of physical activity.

The Elytis Hospitalwe know how painful and unpleasant these injuries can be, that's why our team of experienced orthopaedic surgeons offer you some essential tips to protect yourself and reduce the risk of sprains.

Understand the mechanism of sprains

Ligaments are tough but flexible fibrous structures that stabilize joints and allow controlled movement.

A sprain occurs when a joint is forced to move beyond its normal limits, causing the ligaments to stretch or tear.

The most common sprains are ankle, knee and wrist sprains.

Risk factors for sprains

Certain factors can increase your risk of getting a sprain:

• Intense physical activity: Sports that involve sudden movements, rapid changes of direction or physical contact, such as soccer, basketball, skiing, increase the risk of sprains.
• Inappropriate footwear: Wearing shoes with high heels, inadequate support or slippery soles can lead to instability and increase the risk of sprains, especially ankle sprains.
• Poor fitness: Weak muscles and lack of flexibility make joints more vulnerable to injury.
• Muscle fatigue: tired muscles are less effective at stabilizing joints, increasing the risk of sprains.
• Being overweight and obese: Excess body weight puts extra strain on joints, especially knees and ankles, increasing the risk of sprains.
• Previous injuries: A previous sprain can weaken the joint, making it more prone to further injury.

Sprain prevention: tips from Elytis Hospital

1. Warm up before exercise:

Proper warm-up is essential to prepare your muscles and joints for exercise.

The Elytis Hospitalour orthopaedic specialists recommend dynamic stretching exercises, involving controlled movements, to increase flexibility and reduce the risk of sprains.

2. Choose the right shoes:

Wear shoes that fit well, offer adequate support and have a non-slip sole. For sporting activities, choose footwear specifically designed for the sport.

The Elytis Hospitalwe can offer you personalized advice on choosing the right footwear for your needs.

3. Maintain good physical fitness:

Regular strength and flexibility exercises help strengthen muscles and improve joint stability.

The Elytis Hospitalwe can create a personalized exercise program tailored to your fitness level and your goals.

4. Pay attention to the terrain you are traveling on:

Avoid uneven, slippery or obstructed surfaces. Watch out for steps, kerbs and other bumps.

The Elytis Hospital, we can offer advice on adapting your environment to prevent injuries.

5. Listen to your body:

Rest when you are tired and avoid overexertion.

If you feel pain or discomfort, stop your activity and see an orthopaedic doctor at Elytis Hospital.

6. Use protective equipment:

Depending on the activity you are doing, wear appropriate protective equipment such as knee, ankle, elbow or wrist protectors.

The Elytis Hospitalwe can advise you on the most suitable protective equipment for you.

7. Maintain a healthy body weight:

Weight loss, if necessary, reduces pressure on joints and lowers the risk of sprains.

The Elytis Hospital, we can offer you support and advice in managing your body weight.

8. Pay attention to posture:

Correct posture reduces stress on joints and ligaments.

The Elytis Hospital, we can give you advice on maintaining correct posture during daily activities.

9. Proper hydration:

Drinking enough fluids is important to keep ligaments elastic.

The Elytis Hospitalwe can provide you with information on optimal hydration.

10. See an orthopaedic doctor at Elytis Hospital:

If you have suffered a sprain or have risk factors, schedule a consultation at Elytis Hospital.

Our orthotists will assess your health, give you an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment!

Elytis Hospital: expertise and advanced technology in orthopaedics

At Elytis Hospital, you benefit from:

• The experience and professionalism of a team of highly qualified orthopaedic physicians, constantly up-to-date with the latest techniques and procedures.
• Cutting-edge technology: modern imaging equipment, computerized guidance systems and minimally invasive devices allow for precise and efficient surgery with fast recovery.
• Multidisciplinary approach: we collaborate with specialists in medical rehabilitation, physiotherapy, physiotherapy, physiotherapy and other related fields to provide you with a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan.
• Prevention and advice: we give you information and advice on preventing injuries, maintaining an active lifestyle and controlling risk factors.

Elytis Hospital offers a full range of orthopaedic services, from consultations and assessments to minimally invasive surgery, conservative treatment and rehabilitation.

Schedule a consultation at Elytis Hospital and get the expertise and care you need to maintain your musculoskeletal health!

Latest medical review:

28.01.2025, Dr. Vasile Moiseenco - Specialist Orthopedics and Traumatology