Sprains happen to joints. Your child's joint will be larger looking and bruised or discolored. Pain will occur with movement, but will gradually improve.
Strains happen to muscles, ligaments or tendons.
Your child will feel a sharp tearing pain. Your youngster will possibly feel a muscle spasm. Later on, the area will bruise, turn color and become stiff to move. Both strains and sprains look swollen. Remove any clothing, socks or shoes from the hurt part of the body.