What condition involves damage to a joint with partial ligament rupture, often caused by twisting?

A sprain is characterized by damage to a joint, specifically involving the ligaments that connect bones at that joint. This condition usually occurs when the joint is subjected to excessive force or twisting motion, leading to partial ligament rupture. In a sprain, the ligaments can be stretched or torn, resulting in pain, swelling, and potentially decreased joint stability. The mechanism of injury is often related to sudden twisting or awkward movements that stress the joint beyond its normal limits.

In contrast, a strain refers to an injury to a muscle or tendon rather than ligaments, tendonitis involves inflammation of a tendon usually due to overuse, and a contusion is a bruise resulting from direct trauma to soft tissue rather than a twisting motion or ligament damage. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why sprains specifically relate to joint injuries caused by twisting mechanisms.