$Unique_ID{BRK01073}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Are "Strain" and "Sprain" the Same Physical Condition?}
$Subject{strain strains sprain sprains musculoskeletal connective tissue
tissues overstretching overexertion muscle muscles joints joint injury
injuries ligaments torn ruptured ligament analgesic analgesics NSAID NSAID's
overstretch stretch overexert ibuprofen}
$Volume{M-18}
$Log{
Leg and Foot Pains Caused by Running*0006207.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Are "Strain" and "Sprain" the Same Physical Condition?


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QUESTION:  Aren't the words "strain" and "sprain" used for the same physical
condition?  It seems that the doctors always give me the same advice no matter
which one of these two terms is used as the diagnosis.

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ANSWER:  No, actually "strain" and "sprain" are two separate situations,
although I am sure that many of us have used these words as if they were
interchangeable.  A strain results from overstretching or overexertion of a
muscle.  When you try to use a muscle once it has been strained, you'll know
it, because it hurts and you can often actually put your hand over the area of
injury by feeling for the aching muscle.  A sprain, however, is a joint
injury, and occurs when some of the fibers in the ligaments which form that
joint are torn or ruptured.  The ligament as a whole still remains intact, but
the injury provokes pain in that area.  A typical injury of this type that is
most common is an ankle sprain.  Because this joint bears most of the body
work and is subject to accidental twisting during walking, running and
athletics, almost everyone has had to deal with this frequent sprain.
Obviously, whether it is a muscle that has been injured or a joint, your
doctor is going to recommend rest, applications of heat to the area, and
possibly some type of analgesic or painkiller.  NSAIDs (nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen are also useful to reduce the
inflammation and swelling that may also be present.  You would be wise to take
that advice and not to overuse either the joint or the muscle until all signs
of pain or tenderness have disappeared.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.