What is a common cause of sprains?

A common cause of sprains is overstretching the ligament. Ligaments are tough band-like structures that connect bones at joints, and when they are stretched beyond their normal range of motion, they can become torn or damaged, resulting in a sprain. Activities that involve sudden twists, pulls, or falls can easily lead to such overstretching.

In comparison, excessive cold exposure does not directly lead to sprains; instead, it can contribute to other injuries such as frostbite or other cold-related illnesses. Direct impact on the bone might result in bruises or fractures, rather than sprains, which specifically involve the ligaments. Similarly, while improper nutrition can affect bone and muscle health overall, it is not a direct cause of sprains as they are more closely related to physical activity and stress placed on the joints.