What is a sprain?

• A. Stretching or tearing of a ligament
• B. Fracture of a bone
• C. Injury to a muscle tendon
• D. Dislocation of a joint

Answer: (A)

Sprains are injuries to ligaments—the tough bands that connect bones at a joint. They usually happen when a joint is twisted or overstretched, causing the ligament to stretch or tear. This distinguishes them from a fracture, which is a break in a bone, a muscle-tendon injury (a strain) which affects muscle or tendon tissue, and a dislocation where the bones in a joint are forced out of their normal alignment. Signs include pain, swelling, bruising, and reduced joint stability or movement. Treatment focuses on protecting the joint, reducing swelling, and gradually restoring strength and range of motion.