The Difference Between A Sprain And A Strain

Sprains and strains are very common injuries that the physios in the clinic see on a regular basis, they can happen just about anywhere in the body. Some of the most common areas are wrists and ankles. A sprain and a strain are almost the same thing, they both mean that there has been a pull or a tear in a part of the body. The difference is what has been torn/pulled. A sprain refers to a ligament or joint capsule being torn or pulled, and a strain talks more about pulling or tearing a muscle/tendon. These injuries are often caused by overstretching, overworking, twisting or traumatising the joint or area. They can also occur after an injury, such as a fall in an awkward position. There are 3 different grades to sprains and strains:

• Grade 1 - the tissue is overstretched with some torn fibres, there is usually quite a bit of pain as well. You may feel cramping, tightness and difficulty with movement of this part of the body.

• Grade 2 - a large amount of tearing but not completely torn. Often pain is immediately after the injury, and it will be sore to touch with a lot of swelling and bruising as well as a decrease in strength.

• Grade 3 - complete tear of the tissue. Usually, people have an immediate burning or stabbing feeling in the injured area, they are often unable to move the injured limb and there is bruising after a small period of time.

If you think that you may have experienced a sprain or a strain, don’t hesitate to call us at (02) 8411 2050 to see one of our physios. It is best to see a physiotherapist as soon as possible after an injury where a strain or sprain may have occurred. Our physiotherapists are well trained in how to best treat and educate people to best manage these injuries and maximise recovery. We are conveniently located near Beecroft, Cherrybrook, Hornsby, Normanhurst, Pennant Hills, Waitara, Wahroonga, Westleigh, West Pennant Hills, and West Pymble.