Strain vs Sprain?

The topic of sprain vs strain is a common one, and it’s important to understand the difference between the two to avoid further injury. In this article, we’ll dive deep into what sprains and strains are, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Sprains vs Strains: Understanding the Difference

Sprains and strains are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing. A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn, while a strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is stretched or torn. Ligaments are the tissues that connect bones to each other, while tendons connect muscles to bones. 

What Causes Sprains and Strains? 

Sprains and strains can happen to anyone, but they’re most common in athletes and people who engage in physical activities that put a lot of stress on the body. Some of the most common causes of sprains and strains include:

• Sports injuries

• Falls

• Car accidents

• Lifting heavy objects

• Overuse of muscles and joints

Symptoms of Sprains and Strains

The symptoms of sprains and strains can be similar, but there are some differences. The most common symptoms of a sprain include:

• Pain and swelling around the affected joint

• Bruising

• Difficulty moving the joint

The most common symptoms of a strain include:

• Pain and stiffness in the affected muscle

• Swelling

• Difficulty moving the affected muscle

Treatment Options for Sprains and Strains

The treatment options for sprains and strains will depend on the severity of the injury. In mild cases, protection, elevation, avoiding anti-inflammation, compression, education, load, optimism, vascularisation and exercise (PEACE &LOVE) may be all that’s needed to alleviate symptoms. In more severe cases, physical therapy or surgery may be necessary. 

Prevention Tips

Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding sprains and strains. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Warm up before engaging in physical activity

• Wear appropriate footwear

• Use proper form when lifting heavy objects

• Take breaks when engaging in repetitive motions

• Stay hydrated

Conclusion

In conclusion, sprains and strains are common injuries that can happen to anyone. It’s important to understand the difference between the two and to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms. By following the prevention tips outlined in this article, you can reduce your risk of sustaining a sprain or strain.

References:

Maffulli, N., Del Buono, A., Oliva, F., Via, A.G., Frizziero, A., Barazzuol, M., Brancaccio, P., Freschi, M., Galletti, S., Lisitano, G. and Melegati, G., 2015. Muscle injuries: a brief guide to classification and management. Translational Medicine@ UniSa, 12, p.14.

Ortega-Avila, A.B., Cervera-Garvi, P., Marchena-Rodriguez, A., Chicharro-Luna, E., Nester, C.J., Starbuck, C. and Gijon-Nogueron, G., 2020. Conservative treatment for acute ankle sprain: a systematic review. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 9(10), p.3128.