Strains and Sprains

What Are Strains and Sprains?

Strains and sprains are some of the most frequent injuries we see at Vitality Spine and Rehab. They affect people of all ages, from athletes and fitness enthusiasts to busy professionals and parents. While these injuries can seem similar, they involve different parts of the body:

• Strains involve muscles and tendons, often from overstretching or overuse.
• Sprains involve ligaments, the bands of tissue connecting bones at a joint, usually caused by twisting or sudden impact.

Both can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement, but with the proper treatment, recovery is possible without long-term complications.

Causes of Strains & Sprains

These injuries can occur unexpectedly or develop gradually over time. Common causes include:

• Slipping, falling, or tripping
• Sports activities such as running, jumping, or tackling
• Lifting or carrying heavy objects incorrectly
• Sudden changes in movement or direction
• Repetitive stress on muscles and joints
• Weak or unconditioned muscles

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Strains and sprains vary in intensity, but common warning signs are:

• Sharp or dull pain at the injury site
• Swelling and bruising
• Tenderness to the touch
• Limited ability to move or bear weight
• Muscle spasms or cramping
• A “popping” feeling at the moment of injury

Severe injuries may cause instability or significant loss of strength. If that happens, professional care is essential.

Types of Strains & Sprains

• Mild (Grade I) – Slight stretching, minor pain, minimal swelling.
• Moderate (Grade II) – Partial tearing, noticeable swelling, bruising, and reduced movement.
• Severe (Grade III) – Complete tear of muscle, tendon, or ligament, intense pain, and significant instability.

How Vitality Spine and Rehab Helps

At Vitality Spine and Rehab, we take a complete, personalized approach to your recovery.

1. Diagnosis & Evaluation

We start with a detailed exam, reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. If necessary, imaging such as X-rays or MRIs may be recommended to assess the extent of injury.

2. Individualized Treatment Plan

Your care may include a mix of:

• Chiropractic Adjustments – Align the spine and joints to reduce stress on injured tissues.
• Rehabilitation Exercises – Improve flexibility, rebuild strength, and support long-term recovery.
• Manual Therapy – Gentle hands-on techniques that improve circulation and reduce stiffness.
• Therapeutic Modalities – Such as shockwave therapy, ultrasound, or dry needling, to speed healing.
• Lifestyle Coaching – Ergonomic advice, posture correction, and safe return-to-activity guidelines.

3. Ongoing Support & Prevention

We don’t just stop at healing the current injury. We focus on preventing re-injury by strengthening weak areas, correcting movement patterns, and equipping you with tools for long-term wellness.

Benefits of Early Treatment

Receiving help promptly makes a significant difference. Benefits include:

• Faster Pain Relief
• Reduced swelling and stiffness
• Quicker return to work, sports, or daily activities
• Lower risk of long-term weakness or instability
• Improved mobility and strength

Why Patients Trust Vitality Spine and Rehab

• Experienced Providers – We specialize in musculoskeletal health.
• Comprehensive Care – Chiropractic, rehab, and wellness under one roof.
• Patient-Centred Approach – Treatment plans tailored to your goals.
• Preventive Focus – Helping you stay strong and injury-free.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

At Vitality Spine and Rehab, we’re dedicated to helping you move better, recover faster, and prevent future injuries. Whether you’ve experienced a sudden sprain, a recurring strain, or lingering pain from a past injury, our team is here to guide you through every step of recovery.

Book your appointment today and get back to living pain-free.