Joint injuries are a common type of injury that can be caused by a variety of activities. Sprains, which are seven letters long, are one of the most common types of joint injuries. Sprains occur when ligaments, which are the tough bands of tissue that connect bones to each other, are stretched or torn. This can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected joint. Treatment for sprains typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.