Sprains and Strains

What are they, and how are they treated?

Sprains and strains are common injuries that can affect anyone, from athletes to those simply moving about their daily routines. While these injuries may sound similar, they involve different tissues and require specific treatments to ensure proper healing. At OrthoNeuro, we specialize in diagnosing and treating these conditions to help you get back to your active lifestyle.

With multiple locations in Columbus, OH, we offer expert care for a variety of orthopedic injuries. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a sprain or strain, our experienced team is here to help you recover efficiently. Contact us today!

What Are Sprains and Strains?

Sprains and strains are both acute soft tissue injuries. Understanding the differences between the two is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What is a Sprain?

A sprain occurs when the tough bands of connective tissue (ligaments) that connect two bones in a joint are stretched or torn. The most common location of a sprain is a sprained ankle. Ankle sprains are particularly frequent among athletes and individuals engaging in physical activities.

Sprains also commonly occur in the wrist and knee.

Symptoms of a sprain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, swelling, and inability to bear weight on the affected joint.

Degrees of Severity of a Sprain

Sprains are classified into three degrees based on their severity:

Grade 1 (Mild)

Slight stretching and microscopic tearing of the ligament. Symptoms include mild pain and swelling.

Grade 2 (Moderate)

Partial tearing of the ligament with noticeable swelling, bruising, and moderate pain.

Grade 3 (Severe)

Complete tear of the ligament, causing significant pain, swelling, and loss of function. These injuries often require surgery to repair torn ligaments.

What is a Strain?

A strain involves injury to soft tissues such as the muscles or the tough, fibrous tendons that connect muscles to bones. This type of injury can cause muscle spasms, weakness, and pain. Strains commonly occur in the lower back and hamstrings. Similar to sprains, strains vary in severity from mild overstretching to a complete tear of the muscle or tendon.

Causes of Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains occur in different ways

Causes of Sprains

Sprains often result from a fall, twisting motion, or direct impact. For example, an ankle sprain occurs when the foot rolls inward, overstretching the ankle ligaments.

Causes of Strains

Strains are typically caused by overstretching or overuse of a muscle. Activities that involve sudden movements or heavy lifting can lead to muscle strains.

Symptoms of Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains often show some of the same symptoms, such as pain, swelling, and bruising. However, you may experience some extra symptoms.

Symptoms of Sprains

In addition to swelling, bruising, and pain, you may have a limited ability to move the affected joint and hear a pop sound when the injury occurs.

Symptoms of Strains

A strain may cause muscle spasms and weakness in the injured area.

How Are Sprains and Strains Diagnosed?

Diagnosing sprains and strains involves a thorough physical examination and medical history review by our orthopedic surgeons. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to assess the extent of the injury and rule out any bone fractures.

Treatment for Sprains and Strains

The R.I.C.E. method is the cornerstone of initial treatment for both sprains and strains:

Rest: Avoid activities that cause pain or stress on the injured joint.
Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and numb the affected area.
Compression: Use elastic bandages to provide support and minimize swelling.
Elevation: Keep the injured limb elevated above heart level to reduce swelling.

Additional Treatments

Immobilization: In some cases, a brace or splint may be needed to isolate the affected limb.
Physical Therapy: A crucial part of rehabilitation, physical therapy helps regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the injured joint or muscle.
Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce pain and swelling.
Surgery: In cases of severe sprains or complete muscle tears, surgery may be required to repair the damaged tissues.

Recovery from Sprains and Strains

Recovery times vary depending on the severity of the injury. Mild sprains and strains may heal within a few weeks, while more severe injuries can take several months. Following a proper conditioning and rehabilitation program is essential to prevent future injuries and ensure a full recovery.

Make an Appointment with an OrthoNeuro Specialist Today!

If you have been experiencing symptoms of a muscle or tendon strain, schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified orthopedic and sports medicine specialists at one of our convenient locations throughout Greater Columbus. We will evaluate your unique lifestyle and goals to determine which type of treatment is best for you.

Medically reviewed by B. Rodney Comisar, MD, FAAOS

Sources

Knee Specialists

IF YOU HAVE A SEVERE KNEE INJURY OR CHRONIC KNEE PAIN THAT REDUCES YOUR MOBILITY OR QUALITY OF LIFE, CONTACT ORTHONEURO TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION. OUR EXPERT ORTHOPEDIC SURGEONS ARE ON HAND TO DIAGNOSE AND TREAT YOUR KNEE PROBLEM.