A sprain is often mistaken for a strain. It happens when a joint is stretched too far, leading to injury and tearing of the supporting ligament. It commonly occurs due to falls or twists. Initially, joints remain stable with light sprains. However, they can become unstable with more severe ones. In severe cases, ligament tears occur, separating bones. This greatly impacts joint function.
The sprain’s severity determines its grade. There are three grades:
- Grade 1: It is a mild sprain. It involves damage to the ligament. It can be treated with the RICE technique.
- Grade 2: It includes a moderate sprain. It has a partial tear of ligaments. The tear requires immobilisation.
- Grade 3: It is a severe sprain that has a complete ligament tear. The joint is unstable and may need surgery to heal.
A strain occurs when a tendon or muscle is abruptly pulled, twisted, or overworked. Its symptoms include swelling, pain, stiffness, and reduced joint movement. The most common causes are sports like running, rowing, and tennis, or prolonged standing or sitting. The grades for strains are the same as for sprains, based on severity.
Determining which is worse depends on factors like the patient’s medical history, current conditions, and symptoms. The severity of the sprain and strain also matters for treatment.
At the QI Spine Clinic, our specialists will check for bruises, swelling, tenderness, and redness near the pain site. They’ll press on the area and compare it to the uninjured side. This helps determine the issue. The doctor will then confirm if any breaks or fractures are causing the pain. You might need X-rays, CT Scans, or MRIs to identify the problem and plan your treatment.
Severe strains or sprains may need surgery or a doctor-recommended rest. However, you can treat mild ones with the RICE technique.
- Rest: Mild sprains or strains don’t require much rest, but ample rest is necessary. It helps the affected joints heal by removing excess pressure.
- Ice: If there’s swelling and inflammation, wrap ice in a thin cloth or towel. Apply it to the sore area. Leave it on for 20 minutes. Avoid placing the ice directly on the skin. Then, remove the ice for 20 minutes. Repeat this for 1-2 days.
- Compression: After the previous step, apply compression next. Use a trainer’s tape or bandage to reduce swelling. But, be careful and make sure that you don’t wrap it too tightly. This might cut off blood flow.
- Elevation: Finally, elevate the injured joint above your heart. This reduces swelling, especially in the ankle and knee. For a back or neck injury, consider elevating the affected area using pillows. Otherwise, lie flat on the floor.
Injuries like muscle pulls, strains, or sprains are often linked to our daily activities. But, simple changes can help prevent them. For example, stretching eases pain, especially in the back. It makes muscles more flexible, reducing the risk of injury when jumping or straining. Additionally, taking short walks during work breaks lowers the risk of muscle strains. Being careful during activities like walking, working, and exercising also helps prevent injuries.
Knowing about muscle strains vs sprains, their symptoms, and treatments is crucial. This knowledge helps you respond effectively to these injuries. At QI Spine, we focus on non-surgical spine treatments. We’ve successfully helped many patients with musculoskeletal injuries. Our advanced technology and experienced professionals ensure you get the best care for your needs.