Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. A misstep or a bad landing can lead to this painful and irritating injury, regardless of whether the sufferer is a professional athlete, a fitness enthusiast or if they were simply performing a normal every day activity.
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle joint are stretched (strained) or torn due to sudden or excessive twisting of the foot. Ankle sprains are often categorised into different grades depending on the severity of the ligament damage. These grades help specialists determine the appropriate treatment plan and estimate the expected recovery time. The three most common grades are as follows:
Grade 1 (mild): involves stretching of the ligaments without significant tearing.
Grade 2 (moderate): characterised by a partial rupture of the ligaments.
Grade 3 (severe): involves complete rupture of one or more ligaments.
The causes of ankle sprain
Ankle sprains can be the result of various factors and conditions, such as:
- Abnormal or awkward landing after a jump or fall
- Sudden changes in direction or rotation during sports activities
- Collisions during contact sports
- Uneven surfaces
- Car accidents.
Symptoms accompanying ankle sprains
The symptoms of an ankle sprain depend on the degree and severity of the injury. In general, however, common symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness on the outside of the ankle
- Characteristic sound at the time of the accident
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Restricted range of motion
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected leg
- Instability or feeling of giving way of the ankle.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosing an ankle sprain requires a physical examination to evaluate range of motion, stability and tenderness around the ankle. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans may also be needed to rule out fractures or to assess the severity of ligament damage.
Treatment of an ankle sprain is possible with either conservative or surgical methods. Conservative methods include:
- RICE protocol (Rest - Ice - Compression - Elevation)
- Physiotherapy
- Medication
- immobilization with a splint
- Use of crutches
Ankle sprains can usually be treated effectively with conservative methods, even in cases of complete rupture. However, in some cases surgery is necessary. In the event that conservative methods fail to effectively treat the symptoms or the injury itself, surgery may be the only option. Surgery can be performed either arthroscopically or by open methods.
Prevention tips
Prevention of ankle sprains is possible with a few simple tactics, such as:
- Wearing proper footwear with good ankle support during physical activities.
- Doing regular exercises that strengthen the ankle and lower leg muscles.
- Incorporating proprioception (balance) exercises, which bring about coordination between the brain and the upper and lower limbs in order to prevent falls and injuries
- Paying attention to the surface on which you are walking or running,especially on uneven ground.
- Warming up properly before starting a sporting activity
- Knowing your body's limits and stopping any activity if pain occurs.
Ankle sprains are common injuries that can cause pain and temporary cessation of daily activities. Early and appropriate treatment, along with proper rehabilitation, can greatly speed up the recovery process and reduce the risk of future sprains.
To learn more about ways to treat ankle sprains, contact us at 0030211 - 4057040 or 00306949196061 and orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make an appointment.
