When the fibers of a muscle or ligament tear, it is called a sprain. If you do not 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 broken bone. A healthcare provider should see all sprains. It is important to make sure there is no fracture.
Sprains take longer to heal than strains.
There may be 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 a different kind of management. You may need to be seen by your healthcare provider. All Rights Reserved.