Believe it or not, there are major differences between a sprain and a strain. Both injuries have varying degrees, from grade 1 to the most severe grade 3, but a strain includes the muscle and tendon, whereas a sprain involves the ligament.
Early diagnosis of sprain injuries is key to getting back in the game
Ankle, knee and shoulder sprains can be simple injuries that only keep a player off the field for seven to 10 days. Unfortunately, if a sprain is not diagnosed early and an athlete keeps the injury immobilized, it could take him/her out for half a season.
