A strain is an injury of a muscle that has been stretched too far, too fast resulting in a tear of the muscle itself and the tissue that supports it. A strained or "pulled" muscle feels stiff and doesn't function well for the few days that it takes to recover.
A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament, usually caused by an extreme bend or twist of a joint such as a knee or ankle. Symptoms include immediate pain and possible swelling. A sprained ligament is painful to use and typically requires rest in order to heal.
Simple Treatment for strains and sprains:
- Begin R.I.C.E. as soon as possible.
Rest
the involved area for 1 to 2 days
Ice
the injured area for 20-minute periods
Compress
the area with an elastic bandage
Elevate
to reduce swelling
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