The calcaneofibular ligament is the second most frequently torn ligament. The knee is another common site for a sprain. Sprains frequently occur at the wrist, typically when people fall and land on an outstretched hand. However, these signs and symptoms can vary in intensity, depending on the severity of the sprain. Sometimes people feel a pop or tear when the injury happens.
Doctors use many criteria to diagnose the severity of a sprain.
In general, a grade I or mild sprain causes overstretching or slight tearing of the ligaments with no joint instability. A person with a mild sprain usually experiences minimal pain, swelling, and little or no loss of functional ability. Bruising is absent or slight, and the person is usually able to put weight on the affected joint. People with mild sprains usually do not need an x ray, but one is sometimes performed if the diagnosis is unclear. When To See a Doctor for a Sprain You have severe pain and cannot put any weight on the injured joint.