Sprains may be classified into three categories based on level of severity. Sprains are most common in the ankles, knees and shoulders and are seen less in wrists and elbows. Repeated joint twisting can eventually result in chronic inflammation, degeneration and arthritis. Initial treatment for a sprain is the same as a contusion. Ice, compression, elevation and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Strains are a stretch, rip or tear in the muscle or tendon.
A strain is most often produced by an abnormal muscle contraction. Some possible explanations of a strain may be related to profuse sweating leading to mineral loss, fatigue or strength imbalance. Signs and symptoms of a strain are local pain with increased tension of the muscle, loss of strength, mild swelling, inflammation and impaired muscle function. These signs and symptoms may be more or less prominent depending on the extent of the injury. Strains may also be classified into three categories.