Strains and sprains are painful and common. They are one of the most frequently reported workplace injuries in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. For example, in 2021, almost 18% of the injuries reported to the WSCC concerned sprains and strains.
Although similar, they are some subtle differences between sprains and strains.
Sprained ligaments occur when a joint is twisted or wrenched. Strains happen when a tendon or a muscle is overused, forced or stretched. Back, trunk and torso are especially susceptible to be affected by sprains and strains. Leg and lower extremities, like knees or ankle joint, are also at risk.
If you believe you’ve sprained a ligament or strained a muscle, do not wait to take action: ignoring these injuries can lead to complications and might result in long-term effects. If you feel a burning sensation, swelling, shooting pain, numbness, or if you have difficulty moving, you might be suffering from a strain or sprain.
Sprains and strains can happen as a result of many different types of activities. Fortunately, there are some easy steps you can take to reduce the risk of these types of injuries in the workplace by:
- Warming up and stretching before physical activity
- Being aware of any hazards that could cause a trip or fall in your workplace
- Making sure you are wearing the right footwear for the right environment and that it fits well
To learn more about sprains and strains prevention in the workplace, visit WSCC’s Safety Spotlight page.
|