What type of injury involves the stretching or tearing of ligaments?

The type of injury that involves the stretching or tearing of ligaments is known as a sprain. Ligaments are the tough, fibrous tissues that connect bones to other bones at a joint, and a sprain occurs when these ligaments are subjected to excessive force, resulting in their damaging stretch or tear. This can happen during various activities, such as sports or physical exercises, where there is sudden movement or impact that places stress on the joint.

A sprain typically leads to symptoms such as pain, swelling, bruising, and limited range of motion in the affected joint. Understanding the nature of this injury is important for appropriate treatment and recovery, which often involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE protocols).

The other options refer to different types of injuries: strains involve muscles or tendons, fractures are breaks in the bone, and contusions are bruises resulting from direct impact. Each of these injuries has distinct characteristics and treatment approaches, making it essential to identify them correctly.