Tag Archives: Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains are similar yet very different conditions. They can occur independently or concurrently of one another. An injury of this nature can impair your ability to work and is a valid workplace complaint.

Although they can occur in any joint, sprains are most common in ankles and wrists. A sprain is an injury in a joint, caused by the ligament being stretched beyond its own capacity. Ligaments are tough fibrous tissues that connect bones to other bones.

There are three classifications of severity for sprains; Grade I, Grade II, and grade III. Grade I (mild) sprains involve a tear in only a few fibers of the ligament. This injury doesn’t result in joint instability and the injured person is not functionally affected. Grade II (Moderate) sprains involve a tear of part of a ligament, from a third to almost all its fibers. It will result in bruising, pain and some swelling. Some function is lost in the injured joint. A Grade III (severe) sprain is a complete tear of the ligament. This type of sprain most generally causes severe pain, bruising and swelling. Immobilization and sometimes multiple surgeries are required. The joint is typically weakened which can increase the risk of future sprains of the injured joint.

A strain, commonly referred to a pulled muscle, is an injury to a muscle or tendon where the muscle fibers tear as a result of overstretching. A strain is the equivalent injury to a ligament is a sprain. The most common areas for strain to occur are the back and hamstring muscles. Strains can be one of two types; chronic strains and acute strains. Chronic strains are caused by a repetition injury, where the muscle or tendon is overused and insufficiently rested between uses. Acute strains are a result of a direct blow to the body causing the tissue to overstretch or contract in an excessive amount.

Neglecting a sprain or strain could cause long-term complications, it is best to be evaluated thoroughly if either injury occurs to you. If you are unsure or have questions about your injury and who is responsible, an experienced lawyer should be contacted for consultation immediately.