Difference Between a Strain and a Sprain

Physical Therapy in Roslyn NY

Have you ever hurt a joint but couldn’t pinpoint if it’s a sprain or strain? If you play sports and exercise often, these injuries can often occur. The discomfort from these injuries can prevent you from completing your day-to-day activities and hinder your movements in general. Whether you suffer from past injuries or want to receive further treatment, you can find yourself at Physical Therapy in Roslyn NY. At All-Star Physical Therapy, our highly trained therapists with many years of experience can provide you with the treatment and care you need! Here are also some ways you can prevent this injury.

Strain vs. Sprain 

A strain and sprain are very similar to the injury itself and the symptoms. However, a strain is overstretching or tearing a tendon, whereas a sprain is overstretching or tearing a ligament. Tendons are tissues that connect bones to muscles, and this injury usually occurs in the lower back or the back of the thighs. Your ligaments are the tissues that connect two bones in a joint, and sprains often happen in the ankle or wrist. Common symptoms are swelling, pain, limited use of the joint, and inflexibility. The main difference in their symptoms is that there will be muscle spasms in the affected area for strains and bruising for sprains. Mild symptoms of these injuries can be treated through icing and resting. However, seek medical help if the injury worsens or isn’t healing. 

Common Causes

  • Not warming up before exercising
  • Falling on wrist or ankle 
  • Running/ walking on uneven surfaces
  • Stressing a muscle by repeating the same motion constantly

Prevention 

  • Maintain a healthy diet 
  • Exercise consistently 
  • Wear protective gear during sports
  • Stretch often

Contact All-Star Physical Therapy in Roslyn NY!

These injuries can often be unavoidable as they can happen anywhere, whether in the gym or your workspace. If you are suffering from spraining or straining in any shape or form, All-Star Physical Therapy is happy to help! Schedule an appointment for Physical Therapy in Roslyn NY, if you feel these symptoms and want our therapists to provide you with the personalized treatment you need to make you feel your best!