Everything you wanted to know about a Sprained ankle.
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries while participating in physical activity. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) estimates that approximately 25,000 people per day suffer from a sprained ankle. Of those, about 2,000 will require some medical attention.
There are three main ligaments in the ankle that can be sprained: the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and the posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL). The ATFL is the most commonly injured ligament, followed by the CFL.
Sprains occur when one or more of these ligaments is stretched or torn. According to the top podiatrist at Synergy Foot and Ankle the degree of the sprain is determined by how much damage has occurred to the ligament.
- A first-degree sprain stretches the ligament but does not tear it.
- A second-degree sprain partially tears the ligament.
- A third-degree sprain completely severs the ligament.
Most ankle sprains will heal independently with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). However, more severe sprains may require surgery to repair the damaged ligaments.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of a sprained ankle is pain. Other symptoms may include:
- Swelling
- Tenderness to touch
- Bruising
- Difficulty putting weight on the ankle
If you believe you have sprained your ankle, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor will be able to determine the severity of the sprain and recommend the best course of treatment.
Treatment
Most ankle sprains can be treated at home with RICE:
Rest: Avoid activities that put stress on your ankle. This may mean staying off your feet or using crutches until the pain subsides.
Ice: Apply ice to your ankle for 20 minutes, several times a day. This will help reduce swelling and pain.
Compression: Use an elastic bandage or compression sock to help Reduce Swelling. Do not wrap too tightly, as this may cause additional pain or numbness.
Elevation: Keep your ankle elevated above the level of your heart to reduce Swelling.
If you have a severe sprain, your doctor may recommend immobilization in a cast or splint. Surgery may also be necessary to repair damaged ligaments.
Recovery
With at-home treatment, most people will recover from a sprained ankle within a few weeks. However, it is essential to follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid activities that stress your ankle until it is fully healed. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help improve range of motion and prevent future injuries.
Prevention
There are several things you can do to help prevent ankle sprains, including:
Wearing proper shoes: Choose shoes that fit well and support your feet and ankles. Avoid wearing high heels or sandals with no support.
Stretching: Before participating in any physical activity, stretch your calf muscles and Achilles tendon. This will help improve range of motion and flexibility.
Strengthening: Strong muscles help support the ankle joint and help prevent injuries.
Incorporate exercises that target the calf muscles and Achilles tendon into your workout routine.
Final takeaway :
Ankle sprains are a common injury, but there are things you can do to help prevent them. If you experience a sprain, be sure to seek medical attention and follow your doctor’s instructions for a full recovery.
