What type of injury is a sprain?

A sprain refers specifically to an injury of a ligament, which is the fibrous tissue connecting bones to other bones at a joint. When a ligament is sprained, it means that it has been stretched, torn, or otherwise damaged, typically due to overstretching or excessive force applied to a joint. Commonly, sprains occur in areas such as the ankle, knee, or wrist when the joint is subjected to movements beyond its normal range or direction.

Understanding the nature of sprains is crucial; they differ from other types of injuries, such as strains, which involve muscles or tendons, and fractures, which are injuries to bones. This distinction helps in diagnosing and treating these injuries appropriately.