Two injuries common to muscles and joints are strains and sprains. A strain is less serious than a sprain.

To "strain" is to injure or impair by overuse or overexertion. Strains occur when our muscles and the ligaments of our joints are overworked or used incorrectly. The fibers of the muscle or ligament are over-stretched but not broken. There is discomfort and swelling at the area of injury. This is a minor injury and you can recover in a few weeks by using the following advice:

To control the swelling:
* apply an ice pack to the area for 10 to 30 minutes intermittently for 48 to 72 hours,
* wrap an ace bandage firmly around the area for 7 to 14 days to prevent re-injury, (take it off when not needed) ,
* elevate the injured area for 5 to 10 minutes hourly to reduce the swelling, and
* take an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or aspirin.

Limit use of the injured area by:
* gradually moving and using the area (this will limit swelling and stiffness) , and
* avoid movement that is painful (you will be able to do more as the area heals).

When the fibers of a muscle or ligament tear, it is called a sprain. If you don't feel that your strain is getting better in a few days, you may have a sprain. If you have immediate pain and swelling or hear a snap with your injury, you may have a sprain, or even a fracture. All sprains should be seen by a health care provider. It is important to rule out a fracture. Sprains take longer to heal than strains. Usually there are a few weeks where you are not allowed to use the area at all. After this rest period, most sprains can then be managed like a strain.

Strains and sprains that reoccur need different management. This may include:
* special exercises to strengthen and stabilize,
* supportive shoe or glove devices, or
* surgery.

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