Quiz - Sprains vs. Strains

Neither one is good and unfortunately both are common, but strains and sprains are usually considered a minor trauma. Most adolescents and adults will experience one or both in their active life. So is there a difference between a sprain and a strain, or are these two similar-soundings words interchangeable? Take our quiz to find out:
 
1.    A sprain is a tear, twist, or pull of the muscle or tendon.
 
A.    True
B.    False
 
 
2.    Which of the following is a possible symptom of both strains and sprains
 
A.    Difficulty moving or using the injured area in a normal way
B.    Pain
C.   Swelling
D.   Warmth, redness, or bruising
E.    All of the above
  
 
3.    All of the following are examples of muscle tears except:
 
A.   Runner's knee (Patellofemoral stress syndrome)
B.   Golfer's or baseball elbow (Medial epicondylitis)
C.   Shin splints (Medial tibia stress syndrome)
D.   Jumper's knee (Patellar tendonitis)
E.   Tennis elbow (Lateral epicondylitis)
 
 
4.    The most commonly sprained area of the body is the ankle.
 
A.    True
B.    False
 
 
5.    Treatment for sprains or strains often includes R.I.C.E., which stands for:
 
A.   Rest, intervention, cast, elevation
B.   Rx, ice, compression, exercise
C.   Rx, intervention, crutches, easy-does-it
D.   Rest, ice, compression, elevation

Answers:

1. B. False.  A tear, twist, or pull of the muscle or tendon is called a strain. A sprain is a stretch or tear of a ligament, which is the flexible band of fibrous tissue that connects bones to other bones and cartilage.

2. E. All of the above.

3. C. Shin splints are not caused by a tear in the muscles but by inflammation from overuse.

4. A. True. Knees and wrists are also often affected by sprains.

5. D. Rest, ice, compression, elevation. Other treatment options may include medications such as ibuprofen, activity restrictions, a splint or cast, crutches or a wheelchair, physical therapy, or surgery for a severe or recurring injury.

Source: The Health Library.