While sprains and tears are similar injuries, they are not exactly the same.
Sprains
When a ligament is overstretched or torn upon an injury, such as falling, twisting of a joint, or an impact to the body, it is referred to as a sprain.
Sprains oftenheal in a period ranging from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the injury, and can be –
- Mild sprain: The ligament is stretched but the joint is still stable
- Moderate sprain: The ligament is partially torn but not completely separated from the bone; the joint becomes unstable
- Severe sprain: The ligament has completely torn or separated from the bone
Sprain Symptoms
- Hearing or feeling a ‘pop’ in your joint during injury
- Localized pain
- Inflammation and swelling
- Bruising
- Limited range of motion
Tears
Tears occur when a ligament, tendon, or muscle is torn. Tears may result from the same injuries that cause a sprain but tears are more serious injuries.
Minor tears may heal in a few weeks while severe tendon and muscle tears need several months. Severe tears may even require surgery to repair.
Tear Symptoms
- Sudden, severe pain
- ‘Popping’ sound at the time of the injury
- Loose joint
- The affected area is unable to bear weight
- Instant bruising
- Joint Immobility
- Visual deformity
