What tissue is primarily involved in sprains?

Sprains primarily involve ligaments, which are the tough, flexible bands of connective tissue that connect bones at a joint. When a joint is twisted or stretched beyond its normal range of motion, the ligaments can become overstretched or torn, leading to a sprain. This injury typically occurs in areas such as the ankle or knee where ligaments provide joint stability.

While muscles, tendons, and cartilage are also important components of the musculoskeletal system, they are not the primary tissues affected in a sprain. Muscles are responsible for movement, tendons connect muscles to bones, and cartilage is a smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones at joints, providing cushioning and stability. Therefore, the role of ligaments in maintaining joint integrity highlights their significance in sprains.