When you get a sprain or strain, the healing process can take some time. But first, let's clarify the difference between a strain and a sprain.
A sprain occurs when a ligament (connective tissues, like elastic bands that connect the end of one bone to another and also keep your joints in place) is stretched or torn. It's common to feel a pop or tear when this happens. A strain is a stretched or torn muscle or tendon (tissue connecting muscle to the bone).
The good news is you can sometimes treat the pain of strains and sprains at home. But if you need to see a specialist, rest assured that some of the best orthopedic care in the country is right here in Central Florida. That’s because we’ve joined forces with Rothman Orthopaedics, a national leader in orthopedic care, to advance research, clinical trials and innovative treatments in our community.
We’re here for you with world-class care — and to empower you with the information you need about sprains and strains to strengthen your muscles in your feet, ankles and any other affected areas.
How Sprains and Strains Happen
Sprains and strains can happen in a variety of circumstances. Everything from overuse injuries (working out/playing sports too long without proper rest) to twisting or pulling something to sustaining an unfortunate fall can lead to a sprain or strain. There's no one activity that causes injuries more than others.
A sprained ankle can occur when your foot turns inward, placing extreme tension on the ligaments of your outer ankle. A sprained knee may be the result of a sudden twist, and a sprained wrist can occur when you fall on an outstretched hand.
A strain can occur similar to a sprain, where it may be a simple stretch in your muscle or tendon; or it may be a partial or complete tear in your muscle-tendon connection.
Common signs of a sprain include:
- Bruising
- Decreased range of motion
- Instability of the joint
- Pain
- Swelling
Signs of a strain include:
- Bruising (either immediately or a few days later)
- Inflammation
- Muscle cramping
- Muscle spasm
- Muscle weakness
- Pain
In the first 24 to 48 hours after the injury, there are things you can do in to help alleviate pain and begin the healing process. You should rest, protect the injured area, use crutches or other assistive devices as needed to help immobilize, compress (not too tight), elevate and apply ice for 15–20 minutes at least every two hours.
If you don't see any improvement in a couple of days, you should see a medical professional to evaluate the extent of your injury.
How Sprains and Strains Are Diagnosed
Most sprains and strains are diagnosed by a physical exam. Your medical professional will examine the affected joint or muscles and take you through your normal range of motion, watching for pain, tenderness, weakness or instability.
If there's a chance you've broken a bone, an X-ray may be ordered. An MRI may be needed to determine the extent of your injury because soft tissue, where sprains and strains occur, don't show up on X-rays.
Healing Sprains and Strains
How long a sprain or strain typically takes to heal varies based on the severity of your injury and how much you're still using the area after the injury. Recovery ranges from a couple of days to a few weeks.
In 2013, the National Athletic Trainers Association issued a position statement that ankle injuries should never be taken lightly and are too often mistreated or not treated at all. This can result in an ankle prone to problems, prolonged discomfort and possible re-injury, which can mean further reduced physical activity levels.
And with an injury that never gets better, whether it's your ankle or another area, it can become easy to slip into the habits that of a sedentary lifestyle, which can then to further long-term health complications.
Preventing Sprains and Strains
Regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help minimize your risks of sprains and strains and improve motion in all areas of the body. You can use a variety of stretching techniques to make sure you have full range of motion at all joints and lessen your chances of injuries too. And, using a foam roller can help with stretching and mobility.
Progressive strengthening exercises allow you to better stabilize yourself during activity. Balancing exercises train your body to know where it is in space and reduce your injury rate. Other tips for preventing sprains and strains include:
- Be in the right physical condition for the sport you're playing
- Eat healthy to keep your muscles strong
- Exercise daily
- Keep a healthy weight
- Keep your home safe to prevent slips and falls
- Run on flat surfaces to prevent tripping
- Try to exercise or play sports when you're alert and not tired
- Wear protective gear when playing sports
- Wear the right shoes for the sport you're playing
Transforming Orthopedic Care for the Athlete in You
You deserve the best care, whatever your sport, and we’re your partner on your journey to whole-person health. That’s why we’ve joined forces with Rothman Orthopaedics, one of the nation’s top orthopedic programs, to bring you comprehensive specialty care.
From helping heal sprains and strains to research-backed care for joint replacement, fractures, osteoporosis and more, we’re transforming the field of orthopedics, together. Learn more about this powerful partnership.
