Muscle strain and sprains are two common injuries when playing sports, exercising or exercising in the wrong posture. These two conditions have relatively similar manifestations, so they are easily confused. According to Dr. Yogesh, specialist in Joint Surgery and Sports Trauma at Aster Whitefield Hospital (India), the difference lies in the type of tissue damaged.
Muscle strain is a condition in which muscles or tendons are excessively stretched or torn. tendons are the tissue that connects muscles to the bone. Muscle strain often occurs when overexerting, holding heavy objects in the wrong position, or performing sudden movements. Common symptoms include pain in the affected muscle area, muscle stiffness, muscle weakness, cramps, or spasms. Pain increases when continuing to use that muscle group. Swelling may appear, but bruises are not common if the injury is not serious.
Tension is a ligament injury. The ligament is the tissue that connects bones together to form joints. Tension occurs when the joint is twisted or moves beyond normal limits, such as ankle sprains when walking or playing sports. Symptoms often include direct pain in the joint, obvious swelling, bruises, limited movement, and a feeling of stiffness in the joint. In many cases, the patient cannot bear the pressure on the damaged joint.
The location of the injury can help distinguish. Muscle strain is common in the lower back, neck, hind thighs, fore thighs and calves. These are areas where muscles are most active in daily life and exercise. Tension is often occurring in joints such as the ankle, knee, wrist and thumb. The ankle is the most common location.
Initial diagnosis is usually based on exploiting injury history and clinical examination. X-rays or other diagnostic imaging methods are mainly indicated to rule out fractures or severe lesions.
In the first 24 to 48 hours, both muscle strain and sprains should be treated by resting, applying ice, light compressive bandages, and raising the injured area. These measures help reduce pain and reduce swelling. When symptoms subside, you can do light exercises as directed by medical staff to avoid stiffness.
Patients need to see a doctor if they have severe pain, severe swelling, widespread bruises, cannot move or cannot bear the force on the injured limb. Numbness, loss of sensation, or injury due to a strong fall also need to be assessed medically early.
Correctly distinguishing muscle tension and sprains helps choose the appropriate treatment method and limit the risk of complications.
