Ankle Sprains

What is it ?

An ankle sprain occurs when the strong ligaments that support the ankle stretch beyond their limits and tear. The most common type are lateral ankle sprains which occur when the ankle rolls towards the outside of the foot, resulting in stresses on the lateral ligaments of the ankle. The severity of a sprain can vary greatly depending on the number of ligaments involved and the extent to which the ligaments are torn. There are many grades of ankle sprain, however if you can’t bear weight after a sprain, it is advised to go straight to the emergency department.

Causes

• History of previous ankle sprains

• Walking or exercising on an uneven surface

• Falling down or tripping

• Sports that require cutting or jumping actions, such as trail running, basketball, tennis, football, and soccer

• Unsupportive footwear

Signs and Symptoms

The types and severity of symptoms for a sprained ankle vary widely depending on the degree of the injury.

• Pain on the outside of the ankle

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Instability of the ankle, or feeling that your ankle is ‘giving way’

• Restricted movement in ankle

• Difficulty walking

Treatment

• RICE (Rest, Ice, Compress and Elevate the area) - is most important straight after an acute ankle injury, and is recommended in the first 24 - 48 hours after injury

• Over the counter anti-inflammatory medications to provide immediate relief

• Strapping or an ankle support brace: to stabilize the ankle

• Rehabilitation program: to prevent recurrent ankle instability; this can include graded exercises for proprioception, strength and flexibility

• Surgery: reserved for injuries that fail to respond to nonsurgical treatment, and for patients who experience persistent ankle instability and pain after months of rehabilitation and nonsurgical treatment.