What's the difference between a sprain and a strain? Most people use strain and sprain interchangebly, however, they are very different conditions. A sprain is an injury to a ligament: the tough fibrous band of tissue that connects bone to bone. A sprain is caused when a ligament is stretched too far and torn. Where a strain is a painful stretching of a muscle or tendon.
Symptoms for both conditions may vary, most will result in pain, swelling, or bruising. Aching pain in the heel or ball of the foot could mean you have a strain. Strains are often caused by spending a lot of time on the feet, in shoes that offer poor suppport, people who are over-weight or wear high heels are also at risk for strains. Ankle sprains occur very quickly, during sports or in motion, most commonly seen when the foot twist in an awkward manner.
For both conditions you should see a podiatrist to make sure the pain is not a sign of what could be a serious condition. More than 50% of people who do not heal properly have a reoccurence, this is why it is important to see a podiatrist to ensure you are healing properly.
How to Prevent Ankle Injury:
*Warm up and stretch calf muscles prior to participating in sports activities or exercise program.
*Do not run on uneven surfaces.
*Avoid participating in sports activities or exercise program when you feel pain in ankle or tired.
*Apply protective equipment during sports.
*Wear properly fitting shoes.
*Exercise regularly. Those remaining inactive often suffer a sprain than.
*Take healthy and balanced diet to keep your muscles strong.
At the first sign of ankle pain, the best thing to do is contact a physician.
Symptoms for both conditions may vary, most will result in pain, swelling, or bruising. Aching pain in the heel or ball of the foot could mean you have a strain. Strains are often caused by spending a lot of time on the feet, in shoes that offer poor suppport, people who are over-weight or wear high heels are also at risk for strains. Ankle sprains occur very quickly, during sports or in motion, most commonly seen when the foot twist in an awkward manner.
For both conditions you should see a podiatrist to make sure the pain is not a sign of what could be a serious condition. More than 50% of people who do not heal properly have a reoccurence, this is why it is important to see a podiatrist to ensure you are healing properly.
How to Prevent Ankle Injury:
*Warm up and stretch calf muscles prior to participating in sports activities or exercise program.
*Do not run on uneven surfaces.
*Avoid participating in sports activities or exercise program when you feel pain in ankle or tired.
*Apply protective equipment during sports.
*Wear properly fitting shoes.
*Exercise regularly. Those remaining inactive often suffer a sprain than.
*Take healthy and balanced diet to keep your muscles strong.
At the first sign of ankle pain, the best thing to do is contact a physician.
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