sprain

Sprains and strains are common injuries. Their symptoms are usually graded according to how mild or severe they are. X-rays are not usually needed to diagnose a sprain or a strain.

A sprain occurs when one, or more, of your ligaments have been stretched, twisted, or torn. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue around joints, which connect one bone to another, and help to keep your bones together and stable.

Sprains often occur in ligaments around a joint, such as your ankle, or your knee. However, the joint is not dislocated, or fractured.

A damaged ligament can cause inflammation, bruising and pain around the affected joint. The most common locations for sprains are the ankle, knee, thumb, and wrist.