A sprain is an injury or tear to a ligament. Ligaments are responsible for connecting bone to bone to formulate joints. A strain on the other hand, is an injury or tear to a muscle or tendon. Tendons serve as the connection of muscle to bone to allow for movement at a joint.
Causes
Sprains are typically caused by trauma, whether it is a fall, twisting injury or an impact injury. One of the most common sprains is an ankle sprain. Signs and symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising and/or difficulty moving the affected joint.
Acute strains typically occur from over stretching, twisting or pulling a muscle while chronic strains are the result of overuse. Signs and symptoms of both types include pain, swelling, muscle weakness, muscle spasms and/or difficulty moving the affected joint.
Degrees of Sprains and Strains
There are different classifications of sprains and strains based upon the severity of the injury.
Sprains
Grade I: Mild stretching of the ligament. Symptoms include pain or swelling and the joint remains stable.
Grade II: More severe tearing of the ligament, though not completely ruptured. Moderate to severe pain and swelling, moderate instability at the joint.
Grade III: Complete rupture of the ligament. Involves severe pain and swelling, and joint instability.
Strains
Grade I: Tissue is overstretched with possible mild tissue tearing and pain with full range of motion.
Grade II: More tissue is torn, however not a complete rupture. Results in limited motion, possible swelling or depression at the injury site.
Grade III: Limited or no movement at the site of injury, may experience severe pain initially, however may be painless after.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical attention if you are unable to walk on or move the affected joint or limb, if you hear a “popping” sound with the injury or if you are experiencing significant pain or swelling. Your doctor may rule out a fracture with an x-ray and/or diagnose a severe sprain or strain with an MRI. They may prescribe a cast or splint depending on the severity of the injury and will typically refer you to physical therapy.
Initial Treatment and Physical Therapy
Initial treatment consists of P.R.I.C.E. (protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation). With the goal of getting you back to your functional activities, physical therapy will aim to decrease swelling, manage pain, restore range of motion at the affected joints and regain strength. In order to do this, physical therapy will utilize many different modalities including soft tissue techniques, massage, and a gradual strengthening program.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (720) 493-1181!
