When the fibers of a muscle or ligament tear, it is called a sprain. If you don't feel that your strain is getting better in a few days, you may have a sprain. If you have immediate pain and swelling or hear a snap with your injury, you may have a sprain, or even a fracture. All sprains should be seen by a health care provider. It is important to rule out a fracture.
Sprains take longer to heal than strains.
Usually there are a few weeks where you are not allowed to use the area at all. After this rest period, most sprains can then be managed like a strain. Strains and sprains that reoccur need different management. All rights reserved. Information in this document is subject to change without notice.