Difference Between Strains, Sprains, and Fractures

Whether you’re playing sports or performing day-to-day tasks, it is possible to sustain different types of injuries. Suppose you start feeling pain or discomfort after engaging in certain activities and the condition persists even after resting or taking pain medication. In that case, you may need to visit a medical specialist or a sports injury clinic to determine its cause.

Suppose you are not familiar with the various types of injuries that can occur, especially after engaging in physically demanding activities. In such cases, it may be challenging to identify the cause and apply the appropriate treatment. Hence, visiting your trusted physician or sports therapist in Dubai is highly recommended.

If you are unable to visit a therapist or the pain or discomfort is not severe, you may refer to the definitions below to identify the type of injury and explore simple ways to alleviate the pain.

Fracture

An injury that involves a cracked or broken bone is referred to as a fracture. You will know that you have a fracture if you are experiencing severe and immediate pain, swelling, and bruising. In some cases, you may be unable to bear weight or move the injured body part(s). While it is a serious condition, the symptoms of a bone fracture are not always apparent.

Even if severe breaks are apparent, they can be challenging to diagnose, and physicians may need the assistance of specialised tools to make a more accurate assessment. Even when consulting with the providers of the best physiotherapy in Dubai, a proper diagnosis is often made after conducting a physical examination and imaging tests (MRI, ultrasound, or X-ray).

Strain

A strain involves twisting, stretching, and/or pulling of a muscle or its attachment. This type of injury typically affects the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, but has less to do with joint function. Strains commonly occur in the lower back and hamstrings, especially in athletes.

Depending on the severity of the condition, you may feel better after resting or taking medications. In some cases, your therapist may recommend scheduling a manual lymphatic drainage appointment to help promote healing, alleviate pain, or discomfort. Other treatments such as ice, rest, stretching, elevation, and compression may be performed at home for mild strains, while more serious conditions may require medication, therapy, or surgery.

Sprains

A sprain is a ligament or tendon that has been stretched out or even torn. Like strains, sprains are very common and can occur wherever there is a connection between two bones.

A mild sprain causes stretching of the ligament but leaves the joint stable. A moderate sprain is a partially torn ligament. In some instances, a moderate sprain can destabilise a joint. Sprains can completely tear the ligaments and require surgery to repair the damage.

Sprains may result in bruising, discomfort, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected area. Some sprains are more painful than fractures, leading patients to assume that they have fractured bones. Suppose you need to visit a specialist for a sports massage in Dubai Marina or consult about persistent pain or discomfort. In that case, Scandinavian Physiotherapy Centre DMCC offers a range of treatment plans tailored to your needs. You may visit one of our clinics for a consultation or book an appointment for therapy sessions.