Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries affecting people of all ages and physical activity levels. Whether you’re an athlete or simply walking down the street, a misstep or twist can lead to an ankle sprain. In this blog post, we will delve into what ankle sprains are, the different types of ankle sprains, and the various treatment options available.
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are strained, stretched or torn due to sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. Ligaments are fibrous tissues that connect bones and provide stability to the joint. The most commonly affected ligaments in ankle sprains are the lateral ligaments on the outside of the ankle.
Types of Ankle Sprains:
- Inversion Ankle Sprains: This is the most common type of ankle sprain and occurs when the foot rolls inward, causing damage to the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.
- Eversion Ankle Sprains: These sprains are less common and happen when the foot rolls outward, injuring the ligaments on the inside of the ankle.
- High Ankle Sprains: Also known as syndesmotic sprains, these occur when the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula bones above the ankle joint are damaged. High ankle sprains are often more severe and take longer to heal than the typical ankle sprains.
Symptoms of Ankle Sprains: The symptoms of ankle sprains may vary in severity, but common indicators include:
- Pain, tenderness, and swelling around the ankle joint
- Difficulty or pain when walking or bearing weight on the affected ankle
- Bruising or discoloration around the ankle
- Instability or a feeling of “giving way” in the ankle joint
It is important to have your injury assessed quickly by a physiotherapist or doctor if you have tenderness along the bones of your foot, ankle or lower leg, or you are unable to place weight through your leg directly after the injury.
Treatment Options for Ankle Sprains:
- Protection: Initially, it is crucial to protect the affected ankle and avoid activities that may exacerbate the injury. Whilst doing this, we want to avoid prolonged periods of rest that may comprise our strength and prolong the recovery process. Protect the ankle by using a brace, splint, or compression bandage to provide stability and reduce swelling. We let pain guide our ability to gradually load the ankle.
- Elevation: Elevating the sprained ankle above heart level can aid in reducing swelling and promoting blood circulation. Avoid anti-inflammatories and ice where possible as these can disrupt our body’s natural healing processes.
- Physiotherapy: Once the initial pain and swelling subside, a physiotherapist can guide you through exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and balance. They may include stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises to aid in recovery. Having the guidance and understanding of how to best manage your injury will help you return to your usual activities as soon as possible. Gradual loading is key!
- Bracing and Support: In more severe cases or for individuals prone to ankle sprains, wearing ankle braces or supportive footwear can help prevent future injuries.
- Surgical Intervention: In rare cases where the ligament damage is severe or non-responsive to conservative treatment, surgical repair may be recommended.
Ankle sprains are a common injury that can cause significant pain and limit mobility. Understanding the types of ankle sprains and seeking prompt treatment is essential for proper recovery. By following the appropriate treatment options, including physiotherapy, most ankle sprains can heal successfully. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcome for your ankle sprain. Remember, prevention is key, so take care to wear appropriate footwear, warm up before physical activity, and maintain good balance.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to the team at Sound CBR to help your recovery!
Written by Stephen Batger (Physiotherapist & Exercise Physiologist)