Ankle Strain vs Sprain - Credihealth

Ankle Strain vs Sprain You're just one of many who have struggled to distinguish between sprains and strains when trying to define them. When soft tissues in and around your joints are overstretched or torn, these two phrases are sometimes used interchangeably.

Knowing the essential distinction might help you distinguish between ankle strain vs sprain.

Ankle Strain and Sprain Causes

Ankle Ligaments Improper Footwear The ligaments

Overuse Repetitive strain

Excessive weightbearing

connecting the

Wearing high

or overuse of the

ankle bones can

heels or poorly

ankle joint can

bearing activities

be stretched or

fitting shoes can

lead to soreness,

like running or

torn due to

put unnecessary

inflammation, or

jumping can

sudden twisting

pressure on the

even a sprain.

cause injury to

or turning

ankle.

movements.

Prolonged weight-

the ankle bones and tissues.

Ankle Strain and Sprain Symptoms 1

Ankle Strain Pain, swelling, stiffness, and

Ankle Sprain

2

Difficulty in bearing weight and standing on the affected foot.

area. Reduced range of motion and instability of the joint

Pain, swelling, and bruising around the ankle area.

tenderness around the ankle

3

Common Symptoms Both ankle sprain and strain can lead to a dull ache or sharp pain in the ankle area, along with difficulty in performing activities like walking or running.

Ankle Sprain Diagnosis Physical Exam

Imaging Tests

Doctors will examine the affected

X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be

ankle to check for swelling,

ordered to rule out bone fractures

tenderness, and range of motion.

or detect severe soft tissue damage.

Ankle Stress Test The doctor may also perform a stress test to check if the ankle joint is stable and can support weight-bearing activities.

Ankle Treatment Options

Rest and Ice

Compression

Physiotherapy

Resting the ankle and

Wearing a compression

Physical therapy

applying ice packs can

wrap or sock can help

exercises can help

help reduce swelling and

reduce inflammation and

strengthen the ankle

pain.

improve ankle stability.

muscles and improve range of motion.

Ankle Care and Prevention 1

RICE method Use the RICE method (rest, ice,

Balance exercises

2

prevent injuries.

you experience an ankle sprain or strain.

Do balance exercises regularly to improve ankle stability and

compression, and elevation) if

3

Proper foot and ankle wear Wear properly fitting shoes with

Warmup and stretching Stretch and warm up properly before engaging in any physical activity to avoid ankle injuries.

4

good support to prevent ankle strain or sprain.

Professional Help for Ankle Injuries 1

Orthopaedic Doctors

2

Physical Therapists

3

Sport Trainers A sports trainer can

Consult a reputable

A physical therapist

help you with

orthopaedic doctor

can help you with

techniques to

if you experience

exercises that can

prevent ankle

ankle pain or

improve ankle

injuries during

swelling that

stability and

strenuous physical

doesn't go away

mobility.

activities.

after a few days of rest and home care.

Conclusion Ankle Strain

Ankle Sprain

Ankle strain is caused by stretching or

Ankle sprain is caused by stretching or

tearing muscles or tendons in the ankle

tearing of ligaments connecting the

region. It can be treated with rest and

ankle bones. It can be diagnosed with

ice, compression, or physiotherapy

physical exams or imaging tests and

exercises.

treated with the RICE method, compression, or physiotherapy.