A knee sprain or strain can occur at any time, whether you’re running a marathon, playing sports, or simply walking down the stairs. Injuries to the knee are common, especially given the joint’s role in nearly every movement we make. Understanding the difference between a sprain and a strain and recognizing the symptoms can help you determine whether you’ve injured your knee and what to do next.
A knee sprain refers to the stretching or tearing of the ligaments that connect the bones in the knee, while a strain involves injury to the muscles or tendons around the joint. While both types of injuries can feel similar, certain symptoms can help you determine if you’ve sustained a sprain or strain, and the severity of the knee sprain/strain can indicate what kind of care is needed.
If you’ve experienced a sudden knee injury, such as twisting the knee during a sport or lifting something heavy, you may notice immediate pain. With a sprain, the pain is typically sharp and sudden, often occurring during the movement that caused the injury. This may be accompanied by a popping or snapping sound, which could indicate a ligament tear. Strains, on the other hand, may present as more of a dull or aching pain, particularly if the muscles or tendons have been overstretched.
Swelling is another common symptom of both knee sprains and strains, but the location and extent can vary. In the case of a sprain, you may notice swelling within the joint itself. This can make the knee feel puffy or stiff, and it may be difficult to fully bend or straighten the knee. For a strain, the swelling tends to be more localized to the area of the muscle or tendon that has been injured. In either case, the swelling may worsen over time, especially if the knee is used too soon or subjected to weight-bearing activity.
Bruising is another sign to look for. After a sprain or strain, bruising may appear around the knee. The bruising often develops within hours or days of the injury and can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the damage. For sprains, bruising can sometimes spread down the leg as the blood from the torn ligament or surrounding tissues moves downwards. In strains, the bruising is typically confined to the injured muscle or tendon area.
Instability is a critical symptom of knee sprains. If the knee feels weak or like it might give out, this could be a sign that a ligament has been damaged. The knee may feel as though it cannot support your weight, especially when trying to pivot or change directions quickly. If you experience this sensation, it is important to seek medical advice, as untreated ligament injuries can result in long-term instability or joint damage.
The range of motion in the knee is also affected by sprains and strains. A knee sprain can make it difficult or painful to bend or straighten the knee completely, while a strain might limit the movement due to muscle stiffness or tightness. In both cases, you may notice a significant decrease in mobility, which can hinder activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting with your leg bent for an extended period.
If you’re unsure whether you have a sprain or strain, or if you suspect that the injury is more severe, seeking professional care is essential. At CARESPACE, chiropractic doctors, osteopaths, and physiotherapists are skilled in diagnosing and treating knee injuries. Chiropractic care focuses on ensuring that the knee and surrounding structures are properly aligned, which can reduce stress on the joint and promote better healing. Osteopaths use hands-on techniques to enhance circulation, release tension in the muscles, and promote overall healing in the knee joint. Physiotherapists help guide recovery through customized rehabilitation programs that address strength, flexibility, and functional movement, ensuring the knee regains its full range of motion and stability.
If you’ve recently experienced a knee injury, visiting one of the professionals at CARESPACE can provide you with the right assessment and treatment to ensure a full recovery. Whether you have a sprain, strain, or simply need support through the healing process, these specialists can offer personalized care that promotes healing and minimizes the risk of further injury.
