Sprains and Strains

Whether you're an athlete, a weekend warrior, or simply stepped the wrong way off a curb, sprains and strains can strike when you least expect them. These common injuries affect people of all ages and activity levels—but with the right care and information, you can bounce back faster and stronger.

In this guide, we’ll break down what sprains and strains are, how to recognize the symptoms, when to seek treatment, and how sports medicine can support your recovery journey.

Sprains and strains are soft tissue injuries—but they impact different parts of the body:

• Sprains happen when ligaments (the tissues connecting bones at joints) are stretched or torn. Common sites: ankles, knees, and wrists.
• Strains occur when muscles or tendons (which connect muscles to bones) are overstretched or torn. Common sites: hamstrings, back, and shoulders.

While they’re often used interchangeably in casual conversation, they require slightly different care and recovery strategies.

Sprains and strains usually result from:

• Overuse – doing too much too fast, especially without warming up
• Falls or sudden twists
• Improper footwear or poor body mechanics
• Lifting heavy objects without proper form
• Sports injuries – especially in high-impact or contact sports

Whether you're running marathons or gardening in your backyard, these injuries can happen to anyone.

Sprains:

• Sudden pain around a joint
• Swelling or bruising
• Limited joint mobility
• A "pop" feeling at the time of injury
  
  

Strains:

• Muscle spasms
• Pain when moving or using the muscl
• Swelling or cramping
• Muscle weakness or stiffness

Pro Tip: Mild strains and sprains can feel similar. If you're unsure, it’s best to get checked by a sports medicine specialist.

Injuries are typically graded on a scale of 1 to 3:

• Grade 1 (Mild): Slight overstretching, minimal damage, quick recovery
• Grade 2 (Moderate): Partial tear, more pain and swelling, longer downtime
• Grade 3 (Severe): Complete tear or rupture; may require surgery or extensive rehab

Knowing the grade helps your doctor design a personalized treatment plan.

Some minor sprains and strains heal with basic at-home care. But don't wait to seek medical attention if you notice:

• Inability to bear weight
• Numbness or tingling
• Severe or worsening pain
• Visible deformity
• No improvement within a few days

Early diagnosis can prevent long-term complications and speed up your return to daily activities.

1. R.I.C.E Method (Initial 48–72 Hours):

• Rest the injured area
• Ice to reduce swelling (20 mins every 2–3 hours)
• Compression with a bandage or wrap
• Elevation above heart level to reduce inflammation
  
  

2. Physical Therapy:

Guided exercises improve flexibility, strength, and prevent re-injury. It’s especially important in moderate to severe cases.

3. Bracing or Splinting:

Helps stabilize the joint or muscle as it heals.

4. Surgery (in severe cases):

May be necessary for torn ligaments or tendons that won't heal on their own.

At our sports medicine center, we offer customized care plans for sprains and strains—whether you’re healing from a twisted ankle or a pulled hamstring.

Here’s how you can stay active—and injury-free:

• Warm up before any physical activity
• Stretch regularly to improve flexibility
• Wear proper footwear and supportive gear
• Use correct techniques when lifting or training
• Strengthen your core and stabilizing muscles
• Don’t push through pain—listen to your body

Working with a sports medicine specialist can help tailor a prevention plan that matches your lifestyle and fitness goals.