Overview of sprains and other soft-tissue injuries

[Luis Fok]

Sprains are tears in ligaments (tissues that connect one bone to another). Other soft-tissue injuries include tears in muscles (strains) and tears (ruptures) in tendons (tissues that connect muscles to bones).

Most injuries to muscles and the tissues that connect them result from injuries or overuse.
The injured part hurts (especially when it is used), is usually swollen, and may be bruised.
Other injuries, such as fractures, dislocations, blood vessel and nerve damage, compartment syndrome, infections, and long-lasting joint problems, may also be present or develop.
Doctors can sometimes diagnose these problems based on symptoms, the circumstances causing the injury, and results of a physical examination, but sometimes x-rays or other imaging tests are needed.
Most injuries heal well and result in few problems, but how long they take to heal varies, depending on many factors, such as the person