Soft-Tissue Injuries

What are soft-tissue injuries?

Many activities can lead to soft-tissue damage of muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The result can be pain, swelling, bruising, and damage. Soft-tissue injuries are classified as the following:

• Contusions (bruises)

• Sprains

• Tendonitis

• Bursitis

• Stress injuries

• Strains

Athletes and non-athletes share many similar soft-tissue injuries.

What is a contusion?

A contusion is an injury to the soft tissue often produced by a blunt force such as a kick or fall. The result will be pain, swelling, and discoloration. Treatment for contusions includes rest, ice, compression and elevation (R.I.C.E.). More serious contusions may need to be examined by a physician.

What is a sprain?

A sprain is an injury to a ligament and is often caused by a wrench or twist. Sprains often affect the ankles, knees, or wrists. The treatment for a sprain includes rest, ice, compression and elevation (R.I.C.E.). If the ligament is torn, surgical repair may be necessary.

What is a strain?

A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon and is often caused by overuse, force, or stretching. The treatment for a strain is rest, ice, compression and elevation (R.I.C.E). If a tear in the muscle occurs, surgical repair may be necessary.