Understanding Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are very common and usually occur when you twist, roll or turn your ankle in an awkward position. Following these motions - ligament tears can be noted causing an increase in pain, decreased range of movement and swelling or bruising.
Our ligaments help stabilise our joints and can be found all around the body connecting bones to bones. Ligaments help our joints avoid excessive movements and therefore when a ligament is overstretched a tear can be noted.
Ankle sprains can be present in three different types and the treatment will depend on the severity of the sprain. Hands on assessment by a medical professional such as a Physiotherapist would be recommended to rule out any fractures and be able to identify the severity of the injury caused to the ligaments. In some cases scans such as an X-Ray maybe also be required considering the onset and mechanism of the injury.
Common causes include: Ankle sprains typically occur when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn. This can happen during activities such as running, jumping, or even just walking on uneven surfaces.
Sudden twists or turning
Rolling the ankle inward or outwards
Landing awkwardly after a jump or fall
Overuse or repetitive stress on the ankle
There are three types of ankle sprains:
Grade 1 (Mild) - The ligament fibres are stretched slightly or there is a very small tear.
Grade 2 (Moderate) - The ligament is torn, but it isn't a complete tear.
Grade 3 (Severe) - The ligament is torn completely.
Signs & Symptoms: Identifying the symptoms of an ankle sprain is crucial for tailored treatment. Common signs include:
Pain, mostly when putting weight on the affected ankle
Swelling and bruising around the ankle joint
Difficulty moving the ankle or walking with normal gait
Tenderness to the touch around the affected area
Treatment & Rehabilitation: Treatment for ankle sprains depends on the severity of the injury. For mild sprains, self-care measures such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can help reduce pain and swelling. For more severe sprains, medical attention may be necessary. This can include immobilising the ankle with a brace or splint, physiotherapy to improve strength, stability and flexibility, or even surgery in some cases of severe ligament damage.
While it's impossible to completely eliminate the risk of ankle sprains, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of injury:
Wear supportive footwear, especially during physical activity or sports.
Warm up efficiently before exercising or playing sports.
Strengthen the muscles around the ankle through targeted exercises.
Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid uneven or unstable surfaces when possible.
