sprain (redirected from sprains)

sprain (spran) a joint injury in which some of the fibers of a supporting ligament are ruptured but the continuity of the ligament remains intact.

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sprain (sprn)

n.

An injury to a ligament when the joint is carried through a range of motion greater than its normal range without dislocation or fracture.

v.

To cause a sprain to a joint or ligament.

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sprain,

n an acute injury to ligamentous tissues that results from overstretching, ranging in severity from tissue microtrauma to total disruption of the tissues.

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sprain,

n an injury to a joint, with possible rupture of some of the ligaments or tendons but without dislocation or fracture. See also strain.

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sprain

wrenching or twisting of a joint, with partial rupture of its ligaments. There may also be damage to the associated blood vessels, muscles, tendons and nerves.

A sprain is more serious than a strain, which is simply the overstretching of a muscle, without swelling. Severe sprains are so painful that the joint cannot be used. There is much swelling owing to hemorrhage from ruptured blood vessels.