Sports do a lot of good for people and communities. They provide an opportunity to breathe fresh air and exercise, all while having fun and learning to work together as a team. However, sports also come with risks — namely, strains and sprains

Sprains are actually one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries, with an estimated 2 million cases reported each year. A sprain can be difficult and painful, but Asrar Sheikh, MD, has the necessary experience to help. 

To make sure you’re also prepared, our staff of compassionate professionals at Family Urgent Care in Chicago explains what causes sprains and the first steps to take after one occurs.

How’d this happen?

Your ligaments connect muscles to each other, and connect muscle to bone. A sprain happens when one of your ligaments stretches too far, or tears. 

When you suffer a sprain, you may notice pain, swelling, and bruising. You may not be able to move the joint, either. The most common sprains are ankle sprains, though sprains can also affect your wrist, knee, neck, or elbow. 

Sprains can be caused by several things. Ankle sprains most often result from walking or exercising on uneven surfaces, or landing awkwardly from a jump. Landing on your hands can sprain your wrist. Pivoting suddenly, as one might during a basketball game, elevates your risk of spraining your knee. Though sprains are typically regarded as sports injuries, at least half of sprains occur in inactive individuals. 

Though the pain of a sprain may seem to come out of nowhere, risk factors exist, and knowing them can help you to avoid injury. Avoiding slippery or uneven surfaces can go miles to protect your physical health. Muscle fatigue makes you more likely to suffer a sprain, and the use of worn-out, ill-fitting footwear and equipment can make you vulnerable to a sudden injury. 

What’s the RICE method?

Sprains don’t have to ruin your season. Sprains can be serious, but no matter the severity of the injury, it’s extremely important to seek treatment immediately. Immediate treatment at the time of injury reduces your risk of exacerbating the harmful effects. 

Unfortunately, a doctor isn’t always available at the moment of injury. For situations like this, the providers at Family Urgent Care encourage patients to proactively protect themselves with the RICE method. 

Originally invented in the late 1970s, the RICE method has been a preferred immediate at-home treatment for soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains. While there has recently been some mild debate as to the efficacy of the method, it continues to yield positive results across the globe. 

RICE is an acronym that stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. These simple steps can help to protect your sprain from getting worse.

If you feel pain in your joint, stop using the joint immediately. Drop your ball, and leave the field or court. If your injury occurred in your knee or ankle, find a place to sit down. Ask for someone to bring you a bag of ice that you can comfortably hold, and keep it firmly against your injury. Once any swelling appears to go down, wrap the injury in a recommended bandage, and try your best to keep the injury raised above your heart.

What should I do next?

Some sprains are mild and heal on their own with plenty of care. However, if you find yourself in pain lasting for longer than a day or two, get in touch with your provider at Family Urgent Care. Don’t wait around in pain, possibly making an injury permanent. If you’ve been injured, reach out to one of our offices for an appointment or book online with us today. 

Written By

Admin

Reviewed By

Dr. Adnan Maqsood

Dr. Adnan Maqsood is a seasoned sales and marketing leader with over 28 years of experience across pharma, digital marketing, and business strategy. Known for his analytical mindset and attention to detail, he brings strategic insights and clarity to content, helping shape high-quality, professional communication across industries.

Angelica J.
1752889711
It was easy to check in and be seen by a doctor immediately. The staff and doctor were professional and listened to my concerns. I was prescribed medication and sent to my pharmacy the same day. They accepted my Medicaid insurance.
《Jess 》
1752682571
Clean, fast, friendly and professional.
Burkay T. O.
1752624763
The staff and the doctors working here are great people. They listen carefully, explain patiently and try to help you. They are efficient and caring. I live 3 miles away and there is another urgent care place near my house, but I go here instead.
Максим Т.
1752443583
Very friendly staff!Highly recommend them!
Rhonda T.
1752423221
While traveling I injured my foot and needed medical assistance. I Googled Urgent care near me and was immediately sent to Family Urgent Care located just 4 blocks away from where we were. i was seen right away and my procedure was over in less than 30 minutes. I could not ask for better treatment the medical team was very professional, efficient and kind.Thanks again!!
Bradley S.
1752340055
I’ve been here three times now, and each experience has exceeded my expectations. The level of care, attention to detail, and efficiency during each appointment is truly impressive. It’s rare to find a place that consistently delivers such thorough and timely service—I’m always in and out quickly without ever feeling rushed.
Jonathan S.
1752197475
I woke up this morning with a strange tingling sensation in my eye, lip, mouth, and nose. I was anxious and unsure how I’d make it to a doctor, but my wonderful husband suggested his trusted neighborhood urgent care—and I’m so glad he did.Scheduling an appointment online was quick and easy, and checking in once I arrived was just as smooth. The front desk receptionist was warm, patient, and incredibly helpful as I gathered everything I needed for the visit.Dr. Farrah was exceptional—her attentiveness, compassion, and clear communication truly put me at ease. I felt genuinely cared for and supported throughout the entire visit.I’m so grateful for the experience and will definitely be returning in the future. Thank you all for the wonderful care!
Dillon Jones (.
1752089913
There close by and the nurse was extremely helpful in calming me down during my blood work
EhSan A.
1752084453
Great service. Abdullah bhai team is the best. Awesome patient care.
Maria 1.
1752078588
The front lady was very nice and respectful. She had positive vibes. The doctor was nice and gentle with the patient.
Trinesha W.
1751987023
Great, quick service!!!! I visit all the time.
A. S.
1751982954
Very good visit
Zubair M.
1751916722
Awesome service. Abdullah bhai team is the best. Thanks
Ariell T.
1751745665
Always get the best care here with no problems and it's so convenient. Never long waiting times. MY FAV CLINIC💗
Salma H.
1751743178
Great service. Abdullah bhai is the best.
Mabel M.
1751738162
Excellent service. Awesome teamwork. Great patient care.
Jakob S.
1751737144
Great staff, very speedy, and gave me everything I needed.
Mohammed Abdul Rashid Nuru S.
1751726048
Excellent service. Abdullah bhai team is great.
Maria C.
1751723428
Buen lugar para urgencias.
Mir R.
1751561916
Always get hands-on care, much gratitude.
Robert S.
1751554540
Amazing staff, very professional and friendly. The place is also very, very clean.
Azam K.
1751480185
I had a pre Op visit a day before my surgery. Dr. Simi attended to me and was very kind and gave me reassurance required for the surgery. I am thankful for having Dr. Simi and Dr. Siraj at the clinic
Ab H.
1751381442
Great service, Excellent patient care!
jody W.
1751295040
This place is the best. They are fast and knowledgeable. They always help us here. Wonderful people too
mudassar H.
1751294568
Great service. Awesome team.
HEDAYAT Q.
1751291191
Awesome service. Abdullah bhai team is the best. Thanks
dere k
1750946706
Very nice doctors, experienced.Quickly inspected, qualitatively.I am very satisfied.Thank you!
Zuheir S.
1750878158
الخدمه والدكاتره كثير جيدين
Ammaarah Z.
1750777460
Fast !!
Aftab D.
1750777412
Always satisfied, good doctors , well mannered staff . Today Dr Simi Mehmood saw me and explained to me my condition. I will give surely 5 star to doctors staff and facility.
Ather H.
1750693574
Best clinic in north side
Wilson K.
1750688561
Awesome service. Dr Simi, Maya and Abdullah were great. Definitely come back. Thanks
×
js_loader