Sprains and strains are widely experienced soft tissue injuries by both athletes and other physically active individuals. According to Statistics Canada, sprains and strains were, by a considerable margin, the most commonly experienced injury among Canadians aged 12 years or older during the period 2009-10. 51% of those aged 12 years or older reported experiencing either a strain or sprain compared to the next most prevalent injury, bone fractures, at 17%.
We will see below that the two types of injuries have many more shared features than differences. As a result, they are frequently confused with each other. It should also be noted that the two types of injuries sometimes occur together.
However, there are subtle differences between the two and it is useful to understand what these are.
In this text, we will examine the differences and similarities between the pathologies or causes of these two types of injuries. We will then compare the symptoms and the treatment strategies commonly used for each type of injury.
On the other hand, strains are caused either by a traumatic event or by overuse of a muscle or the corresponding tendon over time. Overuse can occur, for example, with an athlete who overtrains and does not get enough rest between periods of activity.This in turn results in weakening of the muscle or tendon and then to it being overstretched or torn.
Grade I sprains or strains involve overstretching of the ligament or tendon, but no tearing.
Grade II sprains or strains involve a partial tear of the soft tissue involved (ligament for a sprain, muscle/tendon for a strain).
Grade III sprains or strains involve a complete severing of the ligament, muscle or tendon.
With some grade III injuries, there may also be damage to connected bone structures. These too will require surgical correction.
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The LP Cervical Collar uses a hook and loop design for optimal user comfort and restricts head/neck movement to aid recovery from neck strains, and wry neck. Its polyester/nylon mix makes it the ideal solution for those with neoprene allergies.
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This cold spray relives pain from strains, sprains or minor sports injuries.
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Cramer 1050i athletic tape is a high quality porous and latex free tape that comes in useful for treating or preventing soft tissue injuries as well as cuts, scrapes and other similar skin damage.
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Deluxe Woven Elastic Wraps feature a breathable cotton body that minimizes heat build-up without sacrificing support. Its heat resistant heavy gauge rubber improves durability. Double length & washable.
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The Mueller Sports Medicine Elastic Bandage is a high quality cotton and elastic bandage. A highly versatile bandage that you can use to treat muscle/ligament strains and sprains as well as bone fractures.
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Designed by Jenny McConnell, Endura sports tape is a rigid rayon backed strapping tape optimized for patellofemoral strapping and taping.
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Mueller FlexLight tape is a light, highly elastic and tearable tape used for fixing braces, cleats and other athletic gear as well as for supporting injured body parts.
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The Relief Pak® HotSpot® Moist Heat Pack provides the same moist heat therapy advantages as the Hydrocollator® HotPacs at a more economical price.
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BSN Leukotape P is a rayon backed rehabilitation tape with high tensile strength and a powerful adhesive. It is frequently used for taping the patella-femoral and shoulder areas and can remain in position for up to 18 hours at a time.
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LightPlast pro is an elastic and tearable athletic tape that offers consistent unwind tension and excellent conformability. Available in 2 sizes – 2″ x 5 yds and 3″ x 5 yds. Both sold by the case.
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Cramer Sports Medicine’s non tear stretch tape will provide serious athletes with the protection they need for weak or unstable joints or to avoid strains or sprains. Latex free for maximum wearing comfort and available either with 2″ or 3″ widths.
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Try Rub A535 for its instant warming relief of stiff and sore muscles and joint pain. 100g tube available in both maximum & regular strength versions.