sprain

(verb)

To weaken a ligament by sudden and excessive exertion, as by wrenching; to overstrain, or stretch injuriously, but without luxation; as, to sprain one's ankle.

Related Terms

Examples of sprain in the following topics:

  • Sprain and Strain

    • A strain is a tear in tendon fibers resulting from overstretching, while a sprain is an equivalent injury to a ligament.
    • Gymnasts frequently suffer from mild ankle sprains.
    • The equivalent injury to a ligament is a sprain.
    • These can be signs of a broken or fractured bone, a sprain, or a complete muscle tear.

  • Syndesmoses

    • When the wrist or ankle joint is bent beyond its normal range of motion, a sprain or even a tear in these ligaments can occur.
    • Mild syndesmosis injury may involve the sprain of a single ligament.

  • Tenosynovitis

    • The sprained tendon or limb is splinted for a week or so.

  • Torn Cartilage and Arthroscopy

    • In January 2012, Rob Gronkowski, who plays for the Patriots, suffered a severe ankle sprain that required arthroscopic surgery.

  • Back Injuries and Heavy Lifting

    • Common back injuries include sprains and strains, herniated disks, and fractured vertebrae.

  • Metatarsal Fracture

    • A patient with a Jones fracture may not be aware of the injury, and could mistake it for a sprain.

  • Localization of Pain

    • Examples include sprains and broken bones.

  • Joints and Aging

    • Sprains, bruising, broken bones, and many other temporary conditions can result in joint pain.

  • Pain Sensation

    • Examples include sprains and broken bones.