Sprains and Strains: What's the Difference?
- April 19, 2022
Dr. Edwin Tan
CONSULTANT ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON
Cove Orthopaedic Clinic
Dr. Edwin Tan is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon. His area of specialty is in Sports and Reconstructive Surgery, with a special interest in the upper limb and knee. Having done more than a thousand such surgeries, he manages conditions from the most common to the complex.
- Orthopaedics, Physiotherapy
- Reading Time: 3 minutes
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Strains and sprains are commonly confused with each other, as they are very similar! In fact, these two terms are often used interchangeably to describe overstretching or tearing of soft tissues in and around your joints.
Differences between a sprain and a strain
| SPRAIN | STRAIN |
| Injury to a ligament (tissue that connects two or more bones at a joint) | Injury to a muscle or tendon (fibrous cords of tissue that connect muscle to bone) |
| One or more ligaments gets stretched or torn | Muscle or tendon gets stretched or torn |
| Pain and bruising at the affected area | Muscle spasms at the affected area |
Common causes of sprains and strains
Strains and sprains can occur from performing simple daily chores, or while working and exercising. Some of the causes include:
- Athletic activities
- Falling/slipping
- Awkward positions or postures
- Overexertion
- Lifting of heavy objects
- Prolonged repetitive movement
Preventing sprains and strains
Sprains and strains can happen to anyone, especially avid sports people! Here are some simple steps to prevent strains and sprains:
- Warming up and stretching properly before any physical activity
- Getting regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Avoid running on uneven terrain
- Wearing the proper equipment when playing sports
Treatment Options
Whether it is a sprain or a strain, both should not be taken lightly, as they could lead to something more severe if not treated promptly and properly. Here are some ways to alleviate your pain should you sustain a sprain or strain.
R.I.C.E Therapy – What does it stand for?
Rest: Avoid any exercise or activity that requires you to put weight on the area of injury for at least 48 hours.
Ice: Wrap ice packs or a pack of frozen peas and apply to the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes each time, and repeat every 2 to 3 hours.
Compress: To further reduce swelling, compress the area with an elastic bandage until the swelling stops. Do not wrap the injured area too tightly or you may reduce blood circulation.
Elevate: Prop the injured area up using a stack of pillows or sofa armrest, such that it is above the level of your heart to reduce swelling.
Pain Medication
Your doctor may also prescribe some medication to alleviate your pain.
However if the pain persists, it is important to seek professional help from a Doctor. If left untreated, it could lead to more serious conditions such as ankle instability if an ankle sprain was sustained.
Article reviewed by Dr. Edwin Tan, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon At Cove Orthopaedic Clinic
