Do you know the difference between a sprain and a strain?A sprain is an injury to a ligament that occurs when too much force is applied to a joint. Ligaments attach bones together at joints. An example of a sprain is a rolled or twisted ankle.
A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. Tendons connect muscles to bones and muscles to other muscles. Strains can be cumulative, such as with repetitive overuse, or traumatic when a muscle or tendon is suddenly overloaded.
Sprains and strains are graded I (mild), II (moderate), and III (severe). A grade I sprain/strain involves some stretching or minor tearing, grade II is a ligament or muscle that is partially torn but still intact, and grade III means the structure is mostly or completely torn.
The key to full recovery is early evaluation and treatment. With proper care, most injuries will heal without ongoing problems. Without proper treatment chronic problems and re-injury can be expected.
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