Difference between Sprains and Tears?

While sprains and tears are similar injuries, they are not exactly the same.

Sprains

When a ligament is overstretched or torn upon an injury, such as falling, twisting of a joint, or an impact to the body, it is referred to as a sprain.

Sprains oftenheal in a period ranging from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the injury, and can be –

• Mild sprain: The ligament is stretched but the joint is still stable
• Moderate sprain: The ligament is partially torn but not completely separated from the bone; the joint becomes unstable
• Severe sprain: The ligament has completely torn or separated from the bone

Sprain Symptoms

• Hearing or feeling a ‘pop’ in your joint during injury
• Localized pain
• Inflammation and swelling
• Bruising
• Limited range of motion

Tears

Tears occur when a ligament, tendon, or muscle is torn. Tears may result from the same injuries that cause a sprain but tears are more serious injuries.

Minor tears may heal in a few weeks while severe tendon and muscle tears need several months. Severe tears may even require surgery to repair.

Tear Symptoms

• Sudden, severe pain
• ‘Popping’ sound at the time of the injury
• Loose joint
• The affected area is unable to bear weight
• Instant bruising
• Joint Immobility
• Visual deformity