Sprains and strains are both injuries that can occur in the body’s soft tissues, but they affect different structures.
A sprain is an injury to a ligament, which is a tough band of tissue that connects bones to each other at a joint. Sprains typically occur when a joint is forced beyond its normal range of motion, causing the ligament to stretch or tear. Common sites for sprains include the ankle, knee, and wrist.
On the other hand, a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon, which is a fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones. Strains usually occur when a muscle or tendon is stretched or torn due to overuse, repetitive motion, or sudden forceful movements. Common sites for strains include the back, hamstring muscles, and shoulder.
Both sprains and strains can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Treatment for these injuries usually involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the affected area. In some cases, medical treatment or physical therapy may be necessary for more severe injuries.