Final answer:
An injury resulting from overstretching a ligament is a sprain. Sprains involve the stretching or tearing of ligaments, while strains affect muscles or tendons. Common treatments include PRICE and medications for pain and inflammation.
Step-by-step explanation:
An injury that results from overstretching a ligament at a joint is known as a sprain. Ligaments are bands of tough connective tissue that connect bones at a joint. When these ligaments are subjected to more force than they can handle, such as when a joint gets twisted or bends too far, the protein fibers within the ligament can become stretched or torn. This damage leads to swelling and pain in the affected area. Ankle sprains are one of the most common types of sprain injuries. In contrast to sprains, a muscle strain involves the tearing of muscle fibers as a result of overstretching and is also referred to as a pulled muscle. While both conditions are painful and involve overstretching, sprains affect ligaments, and strains affect muscles or tendons.It is also important to note that common treatments for such injuries include the five steps represented by the acronym PRICE (protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation) and may involve medications for inflammation and pain. Understanding the difference between a sprain and a strain is vital for proper treatment and recovery.