What is Sprain?
A '''sprain''' is a type of [[injury]] in which a person hurts the part really bad, but it is not broken. It has common side effects of a broken bone, but it is less serious. == Degrees == The first degree is only a minor tear or stretch of a [[ligament]]. The second degree is a tear of a ligament, which is usually followed by [[pain]] or [[swelling]]. The third degree is a complete rupture. == Signs and symptoms == The typical [[signs and symptoms]] associated with a sprain are the main signs of [[inflammation]]: * localized [[Pain and nociception|pain]] * swelling * loss of function == Joints involved == Although any joint can experience a sprain, some of the more common include: * the [[ankle]]. It is the most common. * the [[knee]]. Perhaps one of the more talked about sprains is that to the [[anterior cruciate ligament]] (ACL) of the knee. This is a disabling sprain common to athletes, especially [[basketball]], [[soccer]], and [[judo]] players. * the [[finger]]s. * the [[wrist]]. The wrist is also a popular sprain area. == Prevention == Sprains can best be prevented by proper use of safety equipment (wrist, ankle guards), [[Warming up|warm-ups]] and [[Cooling down|cool-downs]] (including [[stretching]]), being aware of your surroundings and maintaining strength and flexibility. Physical conditioning is the best way to avoid or lessen the degree of sprains. == Other websites == * [http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/articles/article.aspx?articleId=345&sectionId=7073 More information and treatment at nhsdirect.nhs.uk] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081207124523/http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/articles/article.aspx?articleId=345&sectionId=7073 |date=2008-12-07 }} [[Category:Skeletal system]] [[Category:Injuries]]