Sprain vs. Strain: How to Tell the Difference (Symptoms, Treatment, and When to See a Doctor)

If you’ve rolled your ankle, lifted something too heavy, or felt a sudden pull in your back or hamstring, you may wonder: Do I have a sprain or a strain?
Both injuries cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving—but they involve different types of tissues and require different recovery strategies.

Knowing the difference helps you avoid worsening the injury and ensures you get the right treatment.

What’s the Difference? (Simple Breakdown)

Sprain = Ligament injury

Ligaments connect bone to bone.
Sprains happen when a ligament is stretched or torn—most commonly in the ankle, knee, wrist, or thumb.

Strain = Muscle or tendon injury

Tendons connect muscle to bone.
Strains happen when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn—often in the back, hamstring, or shoulder.

Sprain vs. Strain Symptoms Chart

Causes and Symptoms of a Sprain

Sprains occur when a joint is twisted or forced beyond its normal range—such as:

• Missing a step
• Landing awkwardly during sports
• Falling on your wrist
• Walking on uneven ground

Signs you may have a sprain:

• Sudden pain around a joint
• Swelling or bruising
• A popping sound at injury
• Tenderness
• Difficulty bearing weight
• Joint instability

Sprain severity levels:

• Grade 1: Mild stretch
• Grade 2: Partial tear
• Grade 3: Complete ligament tear

Causes and Symptoms of a Strain

Strains occur when a muscle or tendon is overstretched—often from:

• Lifting heavy objects
• Sudden twisting
• Poor posture
• Overuse in sports
• Running or sprinting (hamstrings!)

Strain symptoms include:

• Muscle pain or tightness
• Bruising or swelling
• Muscle spasms
• Weakness
• Trouble moving the affected muscle
• Pain that worsens with movement

Treatment: What to Do First

Most mild sprains and strains can be treated at home using:

R.I.C.E. Method

• Rest the injured area
• Ice 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours
• Compress with an elastic bandage
• Elevate above heart level

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication may help with pain and swelling.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical care if you notice any of the following:

• You cannot put weight on the injury
• The joint looks deformed
• Severe swelling within minutes
• Numbness or tingling
• Pain directly over a bone (possible fracture)
• Symptoms not improving after 3–5 days

BASS Medical Group providers can order X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI to rule out fractures or soft-tissue tears.

Common Sprains: Wrist & Ankle

Sprained Wrist

Often occurs from a fall onto an outstretched hand.
Symptoms: swelling, tenderness, difficulty gripping.

Sprained Ankle

One of the most common musculoskeletal injuries.
Symptoms: lateral ankle swelling, bruising, pain with weight-bearing.

Severe sprains may require a boot, physical therapy, or—in rare cases—surgical repair.

Can Sprains and Strains Lead to Long-Term Problems?

Yes, if not treated properly. Possible complications include:

• Chronic instability (especially ankles)
• Tendonitis or bursitis
• Muscle imbalance
• Recurrent injuries
• Limited mobility

Proper care and rehabilitation prevent these issues.

Get Expert Evaluation at BASS Medical Group

Whether it’s a mild sprain, pulled muscle, or more serious injury, our orthopedic and primary care providers offer:

• Diagnostic imaging
• Physical therapy
• Bracing or immobilization
• Pain management
• Return-to-activity guidance

Don’t guess—get clarity and relief.
Schedule an appointment with a BASS Medical Group provider today.