Is It a Strain or a Sprain?

leg injury

If you’re an active person, at some point you will experience a sprain or strain – a sudden pain and swelling around a joint or muscle – when you overdo it physically. But do you know the difference and what to do about it?

Here’s the distinction:

A sprain is the stretching or tearing of ligaments. Ligaments are tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect one bone to another. Common locations for sprains are your ankles and knees.

A strain is a stretching or tearing of muscle or tendon. People commonly call strains “pulled” muscles. Hamstring and back injuries are among the most common strains.

With either, you can expect pain, difficulty moving the injured part, decreased strength, and swelling and bruising. The treatment for sprains and strains depends on the severity. Many times, you can take care of a sprain or strain on your own.

What to Do

Whether it’s a strain or sprain, stop activity right away. Think R.I.C.E. for the first 48 hours after the injury:

  • Rest: Rest the injured part until it’s less painful.
  • Ice: Wrap an ice pack or cold compress in a towel and place over the injury immediately. Continue for no more than 20 minutes at a time, four to eight times a day.
  • Compression: Support the injury with an elastic compression bandage for at least 2 days.
  • Elevation: Raise the injured part above heart level to decrease swelling.

When to seek medical advice

For a sprain, seek emergency medical care if you have severe pain when the injured part is touched or moved; you hear a popping sound when your joint is injured; or if you're unable to bear weight on an injured joint because of a feeling of instability or pain.
For a strain, seek medical help immediately if the area quickly becomes swollen and is intensely painful or if you suspect a ruptured muscle or broken bone. Also call your doctor if the pain, swelling and stiffness of less severe strains don't improve in two to three days.
For mild sprains and strains, your doctor will likely recommend basic self-care measures and an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others). In cases of a mild or moderate sprain or strain, apply ice to the area as soon as possible to minimize swelling. In cases of severe sprain or strain, your doctor may immobilize the area with a brace or splint. In some cases, such as in the case of a torn ligament or ruptured muscle, surgery may be considered.

Think Prevention

Warm up properly and stretch before participating in any sports activity, and always wear appropriate protective equipment. Mild and moderate sprains usually heal in three to six weeks. If pain, swelling or instability persists, see your doctor. A physical therapist can help you to maximize stability and strength of the injured joint or limb.

Source: Mayo Clinic.com and KidsHealth.org


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Copyright ©2009 Trustmark Life Insurance Company. Information in this newsletter may not be reproduced in whole or in part without permission from Trustmark Life Insurance Company. The articles contained within this newsletter are not a promise of coverage and are not meant to replace professional medical advice or service. Personal health issues should be discussed with your physician. Refer to your Certificate of Insurance or Policy for complete benefit information.
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