People often use the terms interchangeably, but sprains and strains are not the same. A SPRAIN refers to an injury, over-stretch or tearing of a ligament, which attaches bone to bone. A STRAIN involves injury to a tendon or muscle. A tendon attaches muscle to bone.
Symptoms can be similar:
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Sprain symptoms can include pain, swelling, and bruising. Loss of function is sometimes experienced.
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With strains, people often experience pain, muscle weakness, spasms, and a loss of muscle function.
Treatment for both is similar: RICE method
Rest
Ice
Compress
Elevate
Seek medical attention for sprains and strains when:
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You experience severe pain
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You cannot put weight on the injured joint
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The injured area looks deformed
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There is numbness over the injured area
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You cannot move the injured limb or body part