Strains vs Sprains

Ankle injuries, like strained and sprained ankles, are common. Knowing the difference between an ankle sprain and an ankle strain is important and helps you and your provider know the best course of action for treatment and recovery.

Sprained Ankles

Sprained ankles happen when you roll, twist, or turn your ankle in an awkward way that causes the ligaments in your ankle to stretch past its normal range of motion or tear. Oftentimes, sprains occur on the outside of the ankle. There are three levels of severity to ankle sprains.

Mild Sprain (Grade I)

• Damage to the ligaments is minimal.
• Pain & swelling is mild.
• Mild pain when standing & walking.

Moderate Sprain (Grade II)

• Ligaments are partially torn.
• Pain & swelling may be moderate to severe.
• Limited range of motion
• Moderate to severe pain when standing & walking.

Severe Sprain (Grade III)           

• Ligaments are completely torn.
• Pain & swelling are severe.
• Standing & walking are impossible.

Other common areas for sprains to occur are in your thumbs and knees.

Strained Ankles

Strained ankles happen when damage involves muscles and tendons rather than the ligaments of your ankle. In most cases, strained ankles occur because of abrupt movements like a sudden change in direction or sudden stop. Often, muscle strains are graded on a similar severity scale as muscle sprains. Though symptoms of strained ankles are like those of sprained ankles, bruising is not common with muscle strains. Other common muscle strains include your calves, groin, and hamstrings.

Treatment

In most cases, at home remedies for sprains and strains are enough for treatment. Depending on the severity of your injury, your primary care provider may suggest a cast, boot, splint, and/or crutches. A good rule of thumb for treating minor ankle sprains and strains is the R.I.C.E plan:

• Rest your ankle by not walking on it.
• Ice should be applied immediately to keep swelling down. Do not have ice applied for more than 20-30 minutes, 3-4 times per day.
• Compression dressings, bandages, or ace wraps can stabilize and support the injured ankle.
• Elevate your ankle above your heart as much as possible for the first 48 hours.

If you are experiencing mild symptoms and they are not getting better within 48 hours of the injury, reach out to your primary care provider or visit an urgent care near you. If your ankle looks deformed, has an open wound, or you are experiencing severe swelling or pain, seek care as soon as possible after the injury occurs.