
When you injure a wrist, ankle, knee or other joint, you need to know what the injury is before you can treat it. Sprains occur when you tear or over-stretch a ligament, while a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. Other sources of pain include muscle soreness or spasms, arthritis, and bruising.
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Sprain, Strain or Just a Pain?
You twisted your ankle, and now it’s beginning to swell. What do you do next? Treat it at home, or get help? And should you use ice or heat? Use our assessment to find out what kind of injury you have and what to do.
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First Steps for Treatment
Recovering from an Injury

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Beginner cyclist, runner, jogger or hiker? Avoid these common injuries with some advice from an expert.
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Sprains and Strains Q&As
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What is the difference between a neck sprain and strain? |
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A sprain is an injury to a neck ligament. A strain is . . . Read More |
Top Q&As
- Q When should I go to a doctor for a sprain or strain?
- Q What is a strain?
- Q Why is my ankle black and blue?
- Q How can I treat a sprained rib muscle that's making it hard to breathe?
- Q What causes a sprain?
- Q What is a sprain?
- Q What should I know about caring for someone with a sprain?
- Q How is a sprain diagnosed?
- Q What increases my risk for a sprain?
- Q What are the treatment options for a sprain?
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