sprained

A sprain is an injury to a ligament—the tough band of tissue that connects bones at a joint—caused by overstretching or tearing during a twist, fall, or impact. The word sprained describes having such an injury, as in a sprained ankle or sprained wrist.

Sprains most commonly involve the ankle, knee, wrist, and the large thumb joint (skier's or gamekeeper's thumb). They can range from mild stretches to complete tears of the ligament and can affect one or more ligaments at the same joint.

Symptoms typically include joint pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, instability, and limited ability to bear weight or move the joint. Severity depends on the extent of ligament damage and whether other structures are injured.

Diagnosis is generally based on the history and a physical examination. Imaging such as X-rays may be used to exclude a fracture; MRI or ultrasound can help assess the extent of ligament injury when needed.

Treatment priorities in the initial period are protection and reducing swelling. The common approach is RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) for the first 24 to 48 hours, followed by gradual rehabilitation and, if necessary, immobilization or bracing. Pain can be managed with analgesics such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs.

Most sprains heal within a few days to several weeks, depending on severity; Grade I or II injuries often recover with conservative care, while Grade III ruptures may require longer rehab and, rarely, surgical repair if instability persists. Reinjury risk is higher if returned to activity too soon.

Prevention focuses on conditioning, balance training, proper footwear, and protective braces or taping in high-risk activities. Prompt treatment and gradual return to activity reduce complications and improve outcomes. In medical terminology, a sprain is distinguished from a strain, which involves muscles or tendons rather than ligaments.