Sprains and Strains

Philip A. Gilly, MD, FAAFP
Family Practice Board Certified

Is there a difference between a strain and a sprain?

A sprain occurs when a ligament becomes overstretched or torn. Ligaments connect bone to bone and support joints. A strain, commonly called a "muscle pull" or a "charley horse," occurs when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn. Tendons are the tissues that connect muscle to bone.

What should I do with a strain or a sprain?

The initial treatment for both strains and sprains should include RICE -- that is,

The primary purpose of this regimen is to reduce pain and swelling. Avoid heat because it can increase swelling, which will increase the pain and prolong your recovery.

One of the best ways to apply ice is to freeze water in a paper cup. Then upend it and hold the ice on the injured area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. As the ice melts you can peel away the sides of the cup to maintain contact. Repeat this every hour or so until the swelling subsides.

Use common sense and see your doctor if you have significant swelling, bruising, or pain (either at rest or with movement). You should also seek treatment if you experience numbness, decreased ability to bear weight, inability to move a joint or a body part, or are unable to walk properly.

Is there any way to avoid strains or sprains?

Adequate stretching and warm-up prior to activities and knowing not to exceed your limits are the best prevention. Strengthening and flexibility workouts can greatly reduce muscle strains, says Marc Bernier of HealthSouth Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. For a tip sheet on how to treat sprains and strains, send a return-addressed, stamped, business-sized envelope to HealthSouth Public Relations, 1 HealthSouth Parkway, Dept. P, Birmingham, Alabama 35243

For more information contact your family physician-the medical specialist with the broad training to treat nine out of 10 medical problems in patients of all ages and both sexes. Family physicians are specially trained in disease prevention and health maintenance, preventive care and rehabilitation.

This information provides a general overview on this subject and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to learn how to get more information. More health-related information is available on this and many other topics on the World Wide Web from Dr. Gilly’s Health Resource Directory and from the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Permission is granted to reproduce this material for nonprofit educational purposes only. Written permission is required for other uses, including electronic uses.

Reference: O'Shea, Michael. Parade's Guide to Better Fitness. 3/8/98, page12.