They sound similar but are very different! Read below to learn.
Hey HealthyHips Community! This is Iysha, CEO and Founder, here to teach you about Muscle Strains v.s. Ligament Sprains.
I can bet that most of you reading this have experienced a Sprain injury or a Strain injury at some point in your life, even if it was minor.
I truly believe that learning about the body, your anatomy and physiology, is SO empowering. It allows you to understand your body in greater depth, with can provide a deeper sense of self-connection and autonomy.
So, let’s dive in to Sprains vs Strains!
First off, what’s the difference between a muscle and a ligament?
A muscle is a band or bundle of fibrous tissue that has the ability to contract. Skeletal muscles support posture and allow for voluntary movement of the body.
Muscle Example: The Biceps Brachii Muscle of the upper arm
A ligament is a band of fibrous connective tissue, made up of collagen fibres, that connects bone to bone, supports joints, and limits excessive movement that could cause injury
Ligament Example: The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) of the knee joint
Muscle Strains
A strain is a term that refers to the injury or tearing of a muscle or muscle tendon.
A strain occurs when there has been excessive stress applied to a muscle or muscle tendon, leading to the tearing of these fibres.
Strains typically occur due to a strong eccentric (lengthening) contraction that the muscle isn't prepared to handle, resulting in the overstretching and tearing of muscle fibres.
Ligament Sprains
A sprain is a term that refers to the overstretching or tearing of a ligament.
Ligaments function to support the stability of joints, and prevent abnormal movements at joints.
Ligament sprains typically occur when a person falls, twists or is hit in a way that forces a joint into a compromised position where the supporting ligament(s) overstretch and potentially tear.
What type of balls should be used for Myofascial Release?
A rubber therapy ball should be used for self myofascial release practices. The two types of rubber balls that are recommended are either the High-Bounce Pinky Ball that can be found on Amazon HERE, or Tune Up Fitness Balls which are available for purchase from the HealthyHips Prop Shop — see Add To Cart link below.
Comes with 2 therapy balls in a tote — for only $22 ON SALE!
“The Yoga Tune Up Therapy Balls measure at about 2 1/2" in diameter each and are made of a special rubber that grips at your skin, grabs at multiple layers of muscles, and rubs out adhesions and tension, providing a deep tissue massage. The Yoga Tune Up® Therapy Balls with Tote set includes two massage balls and a mesh drawstring snug-grip tote bag.”