Sprains and strains are common injuries that can happen to anyone. Although they have some of the same symptoms, sprains and strains involve different parts of the body. 

What’s the difference?

If you have a sprain, it means you’ve torn or stretched one or more ligaments. And, chances are it’s an ankle sprain, which is the most common injury in the U.S.

Sprain symptoms include:

• Pain.
• Swelling.
• Bruising.
• Not being able to use the joint.

A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. You’re most likely to have a strain in your lower back or your hamstring muscle.

Strain symptoms include:

• Pain
• Muscle spasms.
• Swelling.
• Cramping.
• Trouble moving.

If you have these symptoms, see your healthcare provider or come to Saratoga Hospital Urgent Care – Wilton. With our on-site imaging and highly skilled medical team, we can diagnose and treat your injury promptly. If you need more advanced care, we can easily connect you to the right specialists at Saratoga Hospital.

Remember: For serious and life-threatening injuries, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.