IS IT A SPRAIN OR SOMETHING WORSE?
Sprains and fractures are the most common ankle injuries, but you can’t assume every twisted ankle is a sprain.
An ankle sprain occurs when the ankle twists or rolls, causing the ligaments that hold the bones of the ankle join in place to stretch beyond their normal range, damaging the fibers of the ligament. Sprains are graded on a scale of one to three:
- A Grade 1 sprain involves stretching and microscopic tears to the ligament fibers, causing minor pain, swelling and bruising. A person can usually walk on it and it will resolve in seven to ten days.
- A Grade 2 sprain involves partial tearing of the ligament and result in moderate pain, swelling, bruising, decreased range of motion and possible instability. Walking may be difficult and immobilization is often recommended, along with physical therapy for range of motion, strengthening and proprioception retraining.
- A Grade 3 sprain is a complete tear or rupture of the ligament, which results in significant pain, swelling, bruising, and, at times, instability. This injury requires immobilization, physical therapy and possibly surgical reconstruction.
TREATMENT OPTIONS: START WITH THE BASICS
Most ankle sprains will heal with a combination of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the tried and true remedy R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression and elevation):
Rest your ankle by not walking on it, if painful.
Ice should be applied immediately to reduce swelling and repeatedly in 20 to 30 minute intervals several times a day.
Compression bandages or ace-wraps may be applied to immobilize and support the injured ankle.
Elevate the injured ankle above heart level for the first 48 hours.
PREVENTION IS THE BEST MEDICINE
To prevent ankle injuries from happening, doctors recommend the following:
- Strengthen the muscles around the calf and ankle with sports specific conditioning exercises.
- Wear properly fitted footwear and wear the right shoe for your sport.
- If you’ve had an ankle injury, wear an ankle brace and don’t resume activity until the injury has healed.
- Pay attention to walking or running surfaces.
To find a doctor or schedule an appointment visit Steward DoctorFinder™ or call 1-800-488-5959.
To find a doctor or schedule an appointment, visit Steward DoctorFinder™.
