Sprains occur when ligaments, the tough bands of tissue that connect bones, are stretched or torn. They often result from sudden twists or impacts and can vary in severity.

Strains involve damage to muscles or tendons, the fibrous tissues that attach muscles to bones. Like sprains, strains can range from mild to severe and typically occur during activities that involve sudden or excessive stretching or overuse of muscles.

Fractures, or broken bones, can occur in any bone in the body and are often the result of falls, collisions, or repetitive stress. Their severity might range from little fractures to total breaks that must be fixed surgically.