A sprain (possibly from Middle French espraindre, to squeeze) is an injury in a joint, caused by the ligament being stretched beyond its capacity. A muscular tear caused in the same manner is referred to as a strain. In cases where either ligament or muscle tissue is torn, immobilization and surgical repair may be necessary. Ligaments are tough, fibrous tissues that connect bones to other bones. Sprains can occur in any joint. The cervical spine runs through the neck and a sprain can cause significant pain. Whiplash is a type of sprain caused by rapid cervical acceleration-deceleration.