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What type of injury is a sprain?

  1. Injury to muscles

  2. Injury to ligaments

  3. Fracture of bone

  4. Dislocation of joints

The correct answer is: Injury to ligaments

A sprain is classified as an injury to ligaments, which are the tough bands of connective tissue that connect bones to one another in a joint. When a sprain occurs, it typically involves the stretching or tearing of these ligaments due to excessive force, such as twisting or impact. This distinction is crucial as it informs the treatment and recovery strategies for the injury. Understanding the nature of a sprain is important for properly assessing joint injuries in emergency situations. Unlike injuries to muscles, which are termed strains, or fractures that involve breaks in the bone, a sprain specifically indicates damage to the ligaments surrounding a joint. This highlights the significance of proper assessment and protocols to manage sprains effectively in an emergency medical context.