Ankle Sprain vs. Muscle Strain

Lower Body
Written By Aliyyah Alidina

What is the difference between a sprain and a strain? 

Though commonly interchanged, there is a big difference between an ankle sprain and an ankle strain.

A sprain occurs when the ligaments that hold your joints together get stretched too far or even tear. There are three different levels to how severe a sprain can be. 

Grade 1: A very mild stretch of the ligament, with mild swelling and pain. These usually recover pretty quickly.

Grade 2: Small tearing in the ligaments, causing bruising, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the area. Healing will take longer. 

Grade 3: Ligament completely torn. This leads to intense pain in the area and inability to bear weight. 

Ankle sprains are the most common types of sprain occurs when you roll or twists your ankle outward which stretches or tears the ligaments in your foot.

Slips, falls, and sports injuries are the most common causes of sprained ankles. Anything that causes you to change directions quickly or pivot your feet fast will put your ligaments at risk.

Balance and coordination are things that you can work on with a physiotherapist to improve and reduce the chances of sprains. High-arched feet are another risk factor which can be addressed by visiting a chiropodist.

Symptoms of sprains can vary but usually include:

  • Pain when putting weight on the ankle

  • Tenderness when touched

  • Swelling and bruising

  • Stiffness

A strain occurs when the fibres of your muscles stretch too far or possibly tear. When this happens, you will usually feel sharp pain or even a popping sound, along with pain, tenderness, and trouble bearing weight. 

Ankle strains are a less common injury than ankle sprains. Strains develop due to chronic overuse rather than a sudden twist or roll. Repetitive stress, such as long-distance running and repetitive jumping on the ankle, causes micro-tears in the fibres. Constant use causes the muscles to exhaust and reduce their shock-absorbing ability.

Symptoms of strains include:

  • Pain when putting weight on foot

  • Tenderness when touching the ankle

  • Swelling and bruising

  • A popping sound at the time of injury

What can we do to help you?

Book an appointment today with one of our practitioners and start your healing journey!





Aliyyah Alidina
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