What type of injury involves the stretching or tearing of ligaments?

A sprain is defined as an injury that occurs when ligaments, the tough bands of tissue connecting bones at a joint, are stretched or torn. This type of injury often happens during activities that involve sudden twists or impacts, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the affected joint. Sprains are commonly categorized by severity: mild (stretching of the ligament), moderate (partial tearing), and severe (complete tearing). Understanding the nature of sprains is crucial, as it differentiates them from other types of injuries, such as strains, which involve muscles or tendons, and fractures, which refer to breaks in bones. This distinction is important for effective diagnosis and treatment in health science contexts.