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Articles: Ankle and Foot
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A sprain is an injury to a ligament, and a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. Strains can occur without a sprain; however, when you have a sprain, you will almost always have a strain. A joint or a muscle that is pulled or stretched beyond its normal range of motion is said to be sprained. A sprain damages the ligament that's attached to the bone and which holds the joint place. A strain, which is often called a pulled muscle, damages the muscle tissue and tendons. Strains can result from ongoing activities that overstretch muscle fibers. Both sprains and strains often occur because of over exertion while playing a sport or during exercising. Falls, improper lifting, sleeping in an awkward position, or even the simple act of trying to reach too far for something are everyday causes. Most sprains affect ankles, knees, wrists, fingers. Most strains injure the hamstring, quadriceps, or bicep. A sharp pain that occurs at the site of the injury is the first sign of a sprain or strain. Other symptoms that follow can include an inability to move the affected area, swelling, redness and bruising. Sprains and strains usually will heal in two to three weeks, and most can be treated at home. Consider taking these steps: |