Ankle Sprains

What is an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain is a common injury that occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch beyond their limits or tear. Ligaments are strong, fibrous tissues that connect bones to each other, providing stability to the joints. Ankle sprains are particularly common in sports and physical activities but can happen to anyone during everyday activities, such as walking on uneven surfaces or slipping. The severity of an ankle sprain can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the damage to the ligaments.

Symptoms of Ankle Sprains
The symptoms of an ankle sprain can vary based on the severity of the injury. Common symptoms include

• Pain: Sudden, sharp pain at the time of injury, especially when weight is placed on the affected foot.
• Swelling: Rapid swelling around the ankle joint, sometimes accompanied by bruising.
• Tenderness: The area around the injured ligaments may be sensitive to touch.
• Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the ankle or walking, with stiffness or instability.
• Bruising: Discoloration around the affected area may occur a few hours to days after the injury.
• Popping Sensation: A popping or snapping sound may be heard at the time of the injury, indicating possible ligament tearing.

Causes of Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are usually caused by twisting, turning, or rolling the ankle awkwardly, which can stretch or tear the ligaments that hold the ankle bones together. Common causes include

• Sports and Physical Activities: Sports that involve running, jumping, or quick changes of direction, such as basketball, soccer, and tennis, have a higher risk of ankle sprains.
• Walking or Running on Uneven Surfaces: Uneven ground or unstable surfaces can increase the risk of losing balance and spraining the ankle.
• Inappropriate Footwear: Wearing shoes that lack proper support, are too tight, or have high heels can increase the risk of an ankle sprain.
• Previous Ankle Injuries: A history of ankle sprains or weakness in the ankle joint can increase the likelihood of future sprains.
• Falls: Tripping, falling, or taking a misstep off a curb or stair can result in an awkward twist of the ankle, leading to a sprain.

Management of Ankle Sprains
The treatment and management of an ankle sprain depends on the severity of the injury, categorised as Grade 1 (mild), Grade 2 (moderate), or Grade 3 (severe). The primary goals are to reduce pain and swelling, restore normal range of motion, and prevent further injury. Common management options include

• I.C.E. Protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation are the first steps in managing an ankle sprain. Resting the ankle and avoiding weight-bearing activities prevent further damage. Applying ice packs reduces swelling and pain, while compression with an elastic bandage supports the injured area. Elevating the foot above heart level reduces swelling.
• Pain Relief Medications: Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage pain and inflammation.
• Immobilisation: In cases of moderate to severe sprains, immobilisation with a brace, splint, or boot may be necessary to protect the injured ligaments and allow for healing.
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist or podiatrist can provide exercises to improve range of motion, strength, balance, and stability, reducing the risk of future sprains.
• Functional Rehabilitation: Gradual reintroduction of weight-bearing activities, followed by sport-specific exercises, helps restore full function and return to normal activities.
• Surgical Intervention: Surgery is rarely needed but may be considered for severe cases where there is a complete tear of the ligament or when conservative treatments fail.

Why See a Podiatrist for Ankle Sprains?
Seeing a podiatrist for an ankle sprain is crucial for proper diagnosis and management. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the sprain, rule out fractures or other injuries, and develop a customised treatment plan to promote healing. They can provide guidance on rehabilitation exercises, prescribe orthotics or ankle braces for support, and recommend preventive measures to avoid future sprains. Proper treatment from a podiatrist ensures a faster recovery and reduces the risk of chronic ankle instability, which can lead to recurrent sprains and long-term complications.