Which Ligaments Are Stretched?

In a mild sprain, a ligament is stretched, but the joint remains stable and is not loosened. A moderate sprain partially tears the ligament, causing the joint to be unstable. With a severe sprain, ligaments tear completely or separate from the bone. This loosening interferes with how the joint functions.

What are stretched ligaments called?

A sprain is a stretching or tearing of ligaments — the tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect two bones together in your joints.

Can ligaments get stretched?

Ligaments and tendons can stretch or tear relatively easily. The symptoms of tendon and ligament injuries tend to be very similar.