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Ankle sprains are one of the most common sports injuries. A sudden jolt or twist can overstretch and tear the supporting ligaments of the , causing pain and swelling. Treatment options include rest, ice packs, and exercises to increase strength and mobility.
The ankle joint has 3 bones that are precisely shaped to interlock and give stability. Strong bands of connective tissue called ligaments reinforce the joint and help hold the bones together. These ligaments prevent too much movement of the joint.
A sudden movement or twist, often when the foot rolls in, can overstretch the supporting ligaments, causing ligament tears and bleeding around the joint.
This is known as an ankle sprain
This is a common injury, particularly in activities that require running, jumping and change of direction (such as basketball and netball). Some people are particularly prone to recurring ankle sprains. The symptoms of ankle sprain include: Swelling – the ankle can swell in minutes or over several hours.
Pain in the ankle joint when trying to move it and when walking, especially when the knee goes forward over the foot. Suggestions for immediate treatment of an ankle sprain include: Stop your activity.
Rest the injured joint
Use ice packs every 2 hours, applied for 15 minutes. Bandage the joint firmly, and extend the wrapping up the calf and down the foot.
Raise the ankle above heart height whenever possible
Avoid exercise, heat, alcohol and massage in the first 48 hours, as these can all exacerbate swelling.
Some people get recurring ankle sprains
This can be caused by a number of factors working in combination, including: Ligament scarring and excess looseness, as a result of previous ankle sprains.
Insufficient rehabilitation from previous sprains
This can lead to weak muscles surrounding the ankle joint, especially on the outside (peroneal muscles). It can also cause decreased capacity to judge where your foot is in relation to your leg; this is called a proprioceptive deficit.
If you are unable to take any weight on the foot or able to take 4 steps, seek medical attention immediately.
An may be needed to see whether a bone is broken.
If the pain from a sprained ankle that you are managing yourself has not improved after a day or so, it is best to seek medical advice. If the ankle continues to be troublesome, your health professional may organise x-rays or other investigations, or both.
Recurring ankle sprains need thorough investigation and rehabilitation
Physiotherapy treatments may include:
- the use of a wobble board or trampoline to encourage balance
- early return to weight bearing activity such as walking
If persistent instability does not respond to comprehensive physical therapy, surgery may be considered.
Suggestions to prevent ankle sprains include: Warm up prior to exercise – include movements that are specific to the sport you are about to play.
Wear supportive shoes appropriate to the sport
Consider ankle braces or tape, as directed by your physiotherapist. Take care when exercising on uneven or wet ground, especially in the first few weeks after a sprain. joint The ankle joint Ankle sprain Symptoms of ankle sprain First aid Recurring ankle sprains Professional help x-ray doctor or consult with a physiotherapist Physiotherapy provides rehabilitation and support exercise programs to improve mobility of the joint exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the ankle (peroneal muscles) advice on taping and ankle braces for use during activity Preventing ankle sprains Where to get help Your GP (doctor) Physiotherapist Urgent Care Clinics American Physiotherapy Association (616) 555-0400.
Key Points
- Ankle sprains are one of the most common sports injuries
- Treatment options include rest, ice packs, and exercises to increase strength and mobility
- These ligaments prevent too much movement of the joint
- symptoms of ankle sprain include: Swelling – the ankle can swell in minutes or over several hours
- Suggestions for immediate treatment of an ankle sprain include: Stop your activity