What does sprain mean?
Answer: When you sprain something, often your ankle, you've usually torn some of the tissue in the surrounding area, specifically the muscle. It heals on its own, but it's best to keep the sprain wrapped to make sure it heals properly. I sprained mine about six months ago and didn't bother wrapping it, and it still hurts if I bend my ankle the wrong way..
Muscles/tendons that have been overstretched. Some are minor and can heal in a few days. Severe sprains can take weeks.