SPRAINS & STRAINS
A question we tend to get asked a lot, is what is the difference between strains and sprains? We tend to use the terms strain and sprain interchangeably in common language (and also like to add pull and tear into the mix just to confuse)! Being a human who moves their body it's most likely we've experienced both of the above at some point, but the pain caused from these common injuries need to be treated very differently - which is why visiting your physiotherapist is so important to get to the bottom of what's actually going on!
The symptoms of a strain or sprain are usually quite similar. It's common to find:
Sprains
A sprain is a tear or a stretch in one of the ligaments in your body. Ligaments are made up of bands of fibrous connective tissue that connect bones to other bones at your joints. These also include the joint capsule which can also suffer from tears. We often see sprains at the knee, thumb, ankle and wrist.
Strains
A strain is also a stretch or tear, but instead it happens in a muscle or a tendon. Tendons are similar to ligaments, but the connect our muscles to our bones. We often see strains in the calves, hamstrings and groins.
First Aid
Over the years, acronyms relating to sprains and strains have evolved from ICE to RICE, then to PRICE and POLICE (not confusing at all!). Here at Articulate Physiotherapy, we like to recommend PEACE and LOVE (trust us, it's not as hippy as it sounds!). PEACE is for the first few days, and LOVE it what our Physiotherapists will give you when you come in (read more here).
Grading Strains and Sprains
If you're seeking treatment for a strain or sprain you may hear people talk about severity in grades:
When should I seek help?
While strains and sprains often stop hurting by themselves with time, the sooner you get treatment the better the outcome (and the quicker and more efficiently you'll be able to return to daily activities and sport or exercise). Your physiotherapist will be able to help diagnose what the injury is, and will be able to refer you on for imaging and to other health professionals (such as surgeons) if needed.
We know that untreated strains and sprains are more likely to lead to stiffness, muscle weakness and are more likely to recur. A strain or a sprain that lasts for more than 3 months becomes a chronic condition, and requires much more work to fix down the track!
No matter how big or small our top tip with sprains and strains is to book in quickly and don't let a small problem become a big problem! Call us on 07 3706 3407 or email info@articulatephysiotherapy.com.au if you want to see one of our Brisbane physiotherapists!
The symptoms of a strain or sprain are usually quite similar. It's common to find:
- pain (either constant, coming and going, at rest or with specific movements)
- swelling
- stiffness
- reduced efficiency of function.
Sprains
A sprain is a tear or a stretch in one of the ligaments in your body. Ligaments are made up of bands of fibrous connective tissue that connect bones to other bones at your joints. These also include the joint capsule which can also suffer from tears. We often see sprains at the knee, thumb, ankle and wrist.
Strains
A strain is also a stretch or tear, but instead it happens in a muscle or a tendon. Tendons are similar to ligaments, but the connect our muscles to our bones. We often see strains in the calves, hamstrings and groins.
First Aid
Over the years, acronyms relating to sprains and strains have evolved from ICE to RICE, then to PRICE and POLICE (not confusing at all!). Here at Articulate Physiotherapy, we like to recommend PEACE and LOVE (trust us, it's not as hippy as it sounds!). PEACE is for the first few days, and LOVE it what our Physiotherapists will give you when you come in (read more here).
- P for Protect - Rest or restrict movement for 1 to 3 days to minimise bleeding, prevent swelling of injured fibres and reduce the risk of further aggravating the injury
- E for Elevate - Elevate the limb higher than the heart to promote the reduction of swelling.
- A for Avoid anti-inflammatory modalities -Anti-inflammatory medications may potentially be unfavourable for long-term tissue healing.
- C for Compress - Use taping or bandages to helps limiting swelling and bleeding.
- E for Educate - Get educated! Your physiotherapist will educate you on the benefits of an active approach to recovery (make a booking!).
Grading Strains and Sprains
If you're seeking treatment for a strain or sprain you may hear people talk about severity in grades:
- grade I – some fibres are torn and the site is moderately painful and swollen, but both function and strength are mostly unaffected
- grade II – more fibres are torn and the site is much more painful and swollen, accompanied by some loss of function and strength
- grade III – the soft tissue is completely torn, with significant loss of both function and strength. Grade III injuries will often need surgical repair.
When should I seek help?
While strains and sprains often stop hurting by themselves with time, the sooner you get treatment the better the outcome (and the quicker and more efficiently you'll be able to return to daily activities and sport or exercise). Your physiotherapist will be able to help diagnose what the injury is, and will be able to refer you on for imaging and to other health professionals (such as surgeons) if needed.
We know that untreated strains and sprains are more likely to lead to stiffness, muscle weakness and are more likely to recur. A strain or a sprain that lasts for more than 3 months becomes a chronic condition, and requires much more work to fix down the track!
No matter how big or small our top tip with sprains and strains is to book in quickly and don't let a small problem become a big problem! Call us on 07 3706 3407 or email info@articulatephysiotherapy.com.au if you want to see one of our Brisbane physiotherapists!
