Distinguishing a sprain from a strain can be tricky. Sprains are injuries to the ligaments, and strains affect the muscles and tendons. Their symptoms are nearly identical—but may offer clues as to the type of injury you have. Whether it’s a strain or a sprain, at-home treatment will likely follow the same course, at least at first.
What Are Sprains and Strains?
Sprains and strains are two of the most common injuries to soft tissues such as ligaments, tendons and muscles, all of which help the body move.
A sprain starts in the joint; a twist, fall or hard bump can cause a stretch or tear in a ligament, which attaches bones to each other. Sprains to the ankle or wrist are common sports injuries and can stem from planting your foot awkwardly while running, or using your hand to break a fall.
Strains can also occur while playing sports, but they are caused by a sudden stretching or tear of your muscles or your tendons, which connect muscles to bones. One of the most common types of strain affects the hamstring, a group of muscles at the back of the thigh. These strains often occur in contact sports, such as football, and in running sports, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.  Â
Symptoms of Sprains and Strains
Both types of injury range in severity, depending on whether the tissue is stretched or torn. Sprains and strains can disrupt everyday life and sideline you from your favorite activities for a bit.
When a sprain occurs, you may feel a pop in the affected joint. Other symptoms may occur right away or within a few hours after the injury, including:
- Bruising
- Decreased range of motion
- Pain
- Swelling
Strains can also cause pain, swelling and reduced range of motion. However, strains can also cause muscle symptoms, such as spasms, weakness and cramping.
Treatment Begins at Home
In many cases, you can treat a sprain or strain at home without seeking medical care. However, if you experience severe symptoms, such as inability to put weight on the affected leg, or you’re not sure what type of injury you have, it’s a good idea to visit an urgent care center.
You can treat sprains and strains at home using a strategy known as RICE, which stands for:
- Rest the affected joint or limb by using it sparingly—for example, stay off an injured ankle or leg—and take a break from physical activity.
- Ice the injury with cold packs for 20 minutes several times per day.
- Compress, or gently squeeze, the injury by wearing a compression bandage. This will help prevent swelling.
- Elevate the injured area above the level of your heart to keep swelling down.
Many sprains and strains heal with the help of RICE, but in some cases, more treatment may be necessary. If your symptoms don’t improve after a few days of using the RICE method, visit an urgent care center or see your primary care provider. A medical provider can determine why the injury is not healing and recommend another treatment. Sprained ankle treatment doesn’t usually involve surgery. However, if the ligament is badly torn, surgical repair may be the most appropriate option.
Injuring the same tissue over and over again can be harmful. According to the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society for example, repeatedly spraining your ankle can damage its cartilage. Consequently, it’s important to take steps to reduce your risk of injury. These include following a balanced fitness routine that includes both strength training and aerobic exercise, and warming up and cooling down before exercising.Â
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