What does a sprain involve?

A sprain specifically involves the stretching or tearing of ligaments, which are the tough bands of connective tissue that connect bones to other bones at a joint. When a joint is subjected to excessive force or awkward movement, the ligaments can become overstretched or torn, leading to pain, swelling, and instability in the affected joint.

In contrast, other options refer to different types of injuries. Tendons, which attach muscles to bones, are involved in strains rather than sprains. Similarly, stretching or tearing of muscles is characteristic of strains as well. The option that only refers to the stretching of tissue does not accurately represent the nature of a sprain. Thus, the most comprehensive and accurate definition of a sprain is indeed the stretching or tearing of ligaments.