Strains and sprains both refer to injury to soft tissue in the body. Soft tissue supports and connects our organs and bones. However, there is a difference between strains and sprains. 

A strain refers to badly stretched or torn muscles or tendons (the soft tissue connecting bone and muscle), while a sprain refers to stretched or torn ligaments (the soft tissue that connects bones at the joint). 

Both injuries can result in pain, swelling, and lack of mobility. It can be hard to tell the difference between the two and sometimes to know whether a fracture has been sustained. 

Possible causes for strains and sprains include: 

• Playing sports and making a movement that causes injury 
• A fall while walking or exercising 
• Lifting a heavy item incorrectly