What type of injury can occur to an ankle?

A sprain is a common type of injury that occurs when the ligaments, which connect bones at a joint, are stretched or torn. In the case of an ankle sprain, this typically happens during activities that cause the foot to twist or roll, leading to damage in the ligaments around the ankle. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility.

While fractures, dislocations, and strains can also affect the ankle, a sprain specifically refers to the ligamentous injury, making it a prevalent choice when considering ankle injuries. A fracture involves a break in the bone, a dislocation refers to the bones at a joint being out of their normal position, and a strain pertains to injuries to muscles or tendons. Therefore, sprains are the most commonly referenced injury associated with the ankle due to the frequency and nature of how they occur.