A ligament injury, or sprain, is damage that occurs to a ligament, the tissue that connects two bones. In a ligament injury, the tissue can become overstretched, incur small tears, or tear completely. Symptoms of a ligament injury include swelling, pain, and a feeling of instability in the joint.

A tendon injury, or strain, is damage that occurs to a tendon the connective tissue that connects a muscle to a bone and allows for flexible motion of the limbs. In a tendon injury, the tissue can become overstretched, develop micro-tears, or rupture. Symptoms of a tendon injury include inflammation, tenderness, and pain that gets worse during use of the affected area.