Ankle sprains are common injuries that occur when ligaments are stretched or torn. The ankle sprain is the most common athletic injury. Nearly 85% of ankle sprains occur on the outside of ankle joints, making ankle sprains on the inside ligaments less common. Many sprains occur when participating in sports, or by twisting the ankle when walking on an uneven surface. Some individuals, due to their bone structure or foot type, are more prone to ankle sprains.

Ankle sprains are classified by “types” and range from mild to moderate to severe. Classifying ankle sprains helps the podiatric physicians diagnose the specific structures involved in the injury in addition to helping determine appropriate treatment plans. Type I ankle sprain, the least severe, occurs when ligament fibers have been stretched or slightly torn. Type II sprain occurs when some of these fibers or ligaments are completely torn. Type III, the most severe, occurs when the entire ligament is torn and there is significant instability of the ankle joint. Fractures of the ankle bone or outside the foot bone may be present. Fractures require immediate diagnosis and attention for appropriate treatment.

Initial treatment includes rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE). The “RICE” method promotes healing, decreases pain, and reduces swelling around the ankle joint. In more severe cases, non-weight bearing activities are encouraged and crutches may be recommended. Most ankle sprains heal in three to eight weeks. In more severe cases, ligaments may require more healing time to promote ankle stability. Repeated ankle sprains may cause chronic instability, interfering with walking or sports activities. In this case, the podiatric surgeon may recommend a surgical procedure to tighten or create new ligaments around the ankle joint to re-establish stability of the ankle joint. Conservative treatment of many foot and ankle problems often promotes pain relief. For example, ankle strengthening exercises following the injury help prevent reoccurrence of injury. Going to physical therapy after an ankle sprain will benefit from reoccurring ankle sprains. Ankle supports and braces or taping around the ankle joint is especially helpful for individuals participating in sports. Your podiatrist may recommend preventive bracing to help prevent future injury.

By Valerie Gregory, MSPT

Tags: ankle pain, ankle sprain, athlete, foot pain, physical therapy, sports injury, torn ligaments

This entry was posted on Wednesday, January 6th, 2010 at 1:14 pm and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.