A sprain is the tearing, stretching, twisting or wrenching of a ligament. Ligaments are bands of tough, fibrous and flexible tissue that connect two bones and hold a joint together. Any joint can get sprained, but sprains usually occur in the ankles or the wrists. A sprain can be a minor twisting of a ligament or a severe rupture needing surgical repair. Homeopathic treatment for sprain has been found to be very successful. First and second-degree sprains are treated effectively with these medicines. They reduce the pain, swelling, and soreness of the sprained area. Along with this, the medicines work to heal the injured ligaments. Homeopathy for a sprain also helps in strengthening ligaments in patients prone to frequent sprains.

Depending on the severity, a sprain is categorized into three grades. A first-grade sprain refers to only the stretching and twisting of a ligament without tearing. In a second-grade sprain, there is an incomplete tear of the ligament, making the joint slightly loose. A sprain with a complete tear of the ligament, which leads to the instability of the joint, is called a third-grade sprain. A sprain is different from a strain, which is the tearing or rupture of a muscle or a tendon.

Natural medicines for a sprain treat sprains in a very safe and gentle way without any side effects. First and second-degree sprains can be treated independently with these medicines. For third-degree sprains, surgical repair may be needed. But after surgical repair, natural medicines can be used to quicken the healing process.

What are the Causes of a Sprain?

A sprain, the over extension or tearing of a ligament, happens when a joint is severely stressed, or a person takes it beyond the normal range of movement. The joint most prone to getting sprained are the ankles. A sprained ankle can occur from the turning, rolling or twisting of the foot. The factors that increase the risk of a sprain in the ankle include walking or running on an uneven surface, activities like playing a sport, or wearing high heeled shoes. Other joints that have a high chance of getting sprained are the wrist, the knee, and the thumb. Wrists usually get sprained when a person falls on the ground with an outstretched hand. People playing different sports are more likely to sprain their knees. A thumb sprain mostly occurs while playing a sport like a tennis that involves holding a racket.

What are the Symptoms of a Sprain?

The symptoms of a sprain include swelling and pain at the site of the sprained joint. The intensity of pain varies depending on the severity of the sprain. In addition to this, there may be bruising at the injured site and a decreased ability to move the affected joint.

Homeopathic Treatment for Sprain

Some of the best medicines for a sprain are Arnica Montana, Rhus Tox, Ruta Graveolens, Ledum Palustre, Natrum Carb, and Strontium Carb. Among these, Arnica Montana is a useful treatment for a sprain when there is intense soreness, swelling and bruising at the affected joint. Rhus Tox and Ruta Graveolens are beneficial for sprains affecting any joint. In the first line of treatment for sprains, medicines that are most helpful include Arnica Montana, Rhus Tox, and Ruta Graveolens. Ledum Palustre is useful for persons prone to ankle sprains. Natrum Carb works well for chronic sprains that occur mainly in the ankle. Strontium Carb is an effective treatment for a sprain in the ankle or the wrist.