Although the intensity varies, pain, bruising and inflammation
are common to all three categories of sprains: mild, moderate
and severe. You may feel a tear or pop in the joint. With a
severe sprain, ligaments tear completely or separate from the
bone. This loosening interferes with joint function. A moderate
sprain partially tears the ligament, producing joint instability
and some swelling. A ligament is stretched in a mild sprain, but
there is no joint loosening or instability. Sprains happen most
often in the ankle, and are more likely if you've had a previous
sprain there. Repeated sprains can lead to ankle arthritis, a
loose ankle or tendon injury. Acute strains are caused by
stretching or pulling a muscle or tendon. Chronic strains are
the result of overuse of muscles and tendons, through prolonged,
repetitive movement. Inadequate rest during intense training can
cause a strain. Typical symptoms of strain include pain, muscle
spasm, muscle weakness, swelling, inflammation and cramping. In
severe strains