A sprain is an injury of the ligaments and joints usually brought about by a sudden, jerking movement. Usually, a sprain only stretches out the ligament, however, in more serious cases, the ligament may be torn or ruptured. The best way to prevent a sprain is to stretch during the warm-up and cool-down phase of a workout. If a sprain occurs, avoid activity that stresses the area, apply ice as needed, and compress the region.