How do sprains and strains differ?

A sprain occurs when you overstretch or tear a ligament, which is a band of tissue that connects the end of one bone to another. You can sprain your ankle, knee, wrist, elbow, or neck (whiplash) by falling or twisting a part of your body, or when you receive a blow to the body. You may remember feeling a pop when you hurt yourself.

A strain occurs when you pull or stress a muscle or tendon, which is a band of tissue that connects muscle to bone. You may get a strain from lifting something heavy or while playing sports. Strains commonly affect the back and thigh.

How will I know if I have a mild or severe sprain or strain?

If your sprain or strain is mild, you may have some pain and swelling, but you can still move and use the injured body part.

If your injury is more severe, you may also have bruising, swelling, cramps, or spasms (depending on where you hurt yourself), and trouble bearing weight or moving the body part. These can also be signs of a more serious injury, such as a broken bone. To find out if you've broken a bone, your healthcare provider may order an X-ray.

How will my sprain or strain be treated?

The treatment for most sprains and strains is similar. For the first 1 to 2 days, use RICE therapy to reduce your pain and swelling:

* * Rest: Take it easy. Your healthcare provider will tell you what activities to avoid based on your injury.

* * Ice: Apply an ice pack to the injured area for no more than 20 minutes four to eight times a day for 24 to 48 hours. Don't apply ice directly to your skin.

* * Compression: Your healthcare provider may ask you to wear an elastic wrap to keep the injured area from swelling and to keep it still. Special boots or a splint may also help keep the injured area from moving too much.

* * Elevation: While sitting or lying down, place the injured area on pillows above the level of your heart.

A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, will also help stop pain and swelling.

Once your pain and swelling ease up, your healthcare provider may recommend certain exercises or physical therapy to increase the strength and flexibility of the injured area and prevent another injury. When you're able to exercise again (wait at least 2 days after your injury), applying a warm compress to the area before exercise will help loosen your muscles.

To treat a very severe injury, your healthcare provider may apply a cast to keep the injured area still while it heals, or perform surgery.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Once treatment begins, call your healthcare provider if you have more pain, swelling, or bruising than you had before you started treatment or if you feel numbness or tingling on or near the injured area.

How can I prevent sprains and strains?

* Exercise regularly to keep your joints and muscles strong.

* Use protective equipment when playing sports.

* Wear shoes that fit well. When exercising, wear shoes that have a soft, even sole.

* Maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight puts more stress on your muscles and joints. Your healthcare provider can determine your ideal body weight.

* Eat a well-balanced diet to keep your muscles healthy.

* When you pick up something heavy, hold it close to your body, keep your back straight and your feet apart, and bend your knees. Lift using your legs, not your back. Don't twist your body or reach while you're lifting.