What distinguishes a sprain from a strain?

The distinction between a sprain and a strain is fundamentally based on the types of tissues that are affected in each injury. A sprain is characterized by the stretching or tearing of ligaments, which are the fibrous connective tissues that connect bones to one another at a joint. This can lead to instability and pain in the affected joint.

On the other hand, a strain involves muscles or tendons. Tendons are the tissues that connect muscles to bones, and when a strain occurs, it can mean that either the muscle itself or the tendon has been stretched or torn. This results in pain, swelling, and sometimes loss of function in the affected muscle.

Understanding this distinction is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment of these injuries. Recognizing that sprains affect ligaments and strains pertain to muscles or tendons is essential for implementing appropriate first aid measures and rehabilitation strategies.