Definition
A sprain is an injury to the ligaments around a joint. Ligaments are strong, flexible fibers that hold bones together. When a ligament is stretched too far or tears, the area around the joint will become painful and swell.
Causes
Sprains are caused when a joint is forced to move into an unnatural position. For example, twisting your ankle may cause a sprain to one or more of the ligaments around the ankle.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a sprain include:
- Joint pain or muscle pain
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Discoloration of the skin, especially bruising
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Go to the hospital right away or call 911 or the local emergency number if:
- You think you have a broken bone.
- The joint appears out of position.
- You have a serious injury or severe pain.
- You hear a popping sound and have immediate problems using the joint.
Contact your provider if:
- Swelling does not start to go away within 2 days.
- You have symptoms of infection, including red, warm, painful skin or a fever over 100°F (38°C).
- The pain does not go away after several weeks.
Prevention
The following steps may lower your risk for a sprain:
- Wear protective footwear during activities that place stress on your ankle and other joints.
- Make sure that shoes fit your feet properly.
- Avoid high-heeled shoes.
- Always warm-up and stretch before doing exercise and sports.
- Avoid sports and activities for which you have not trained.
References
Biundo JJ, Canoso JJ. Bursitis, tendinopathy, other periarticular disorders, and sports medicine. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 242.
Geiderman JM, Torbati S. General principles of orthopedic injuries. In: Walls RM, ed. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 41.
Wang D, Eliasberg CD, Rodeo SA. Physiology and pathophysiology of musculoskeletal tissues. In: Miller MD, Thompson SR. eds. DeLee, Drez, & Miller's Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 1.
Version Info
Last reviewed on: 4/1/2025
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor Emeritus, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.