Ankle Sprain

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments in the ankle get injured, which generally happens to those that are on the outside part of the ankle. Ligaments are bands or sheets of tough tissue, akin to rubber bands, which bind joints together and connect one bone to the other. Ligaments that are found in the ankle joints provide stability, because they limit movement from side-to-side.

The severity of a sprained ankle is contingent upon various factors, such as the number of ligaments involved, and whether the ligament is completely torn, partially torn, or just stretched.

What are the Causes of Ankle Sprain?

Ankle sprains are generally caused by a sudden twist of the ankle, a fall, or any kind of blow that results in the ankle joint being forced out of position. Sprained ankles usually occur while running or walking on any uneven surface, wearing shoes that are not appropriate, or while taking part in sports.

Some people who are born with weak ankles are also prone to ankle sprains. A previous foot or ankle injury could also make you susceptible to ankle sprains.

What are the Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle?

Some of the symptoms and signs of an ankle sprain include:

• Ankle pain or tenderness
• Swollen ankle
• A bruise on the ankle
• Stiffness of the ankle joint
• Discomfort or pain felt while walking

The above symptoms can differ in intensity, according to the severity of the injury. Occasionally, in individuals who have had previous sprained ankles, the ankle pain or the swelling could be absent. Instead, they may experience feeling as if the ankle is unsteady and wobbly while walking. If you have a sprained ankle, and you do not have swelling or pain, it is still essential to get it treated. Prompt medical attention is required for any sprain in the ankle.

If you have a sprained ankle, first of all start using R.I.C.E., which means Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, immediately in order to reduce the exacerbation of the injury any further, as well as provide relief for the pain and swelling. Then, you need to get in touch with a medical professional, preferably a foot and ankle specialist, as fast as possible.

Why does an Ankle Sprain require Prompt Medical Attention?

Here are some of the most important reasons why a sprained ankle should be evaluated and treated promptly by a foot and ankle specialist:

• If a sprained ankle is left untreated it could result in chronic ankle instability, which is a condition characterized by the ankle ‘giving way’ frequently and continual discomfort. A weakness of the leg may also develop.
• Also, along with the ankle sprain there may be a more serious injury in the ankle, which may not realize, such as a fracture in the bones of the ankle, which could result in complications in case it is not treated promptly.
• A sprained ankle could also be accompanied by an injury in the foot, by which discomfort is caused, but may have been unnoticed until now.

Generally, sprained ankles require just a period of protecting the ankle in order to heal, which takes about 4-6 weeks. You may be advised by the doctor to incorporate movement in the ankle joint early during the healing process, to avoid stiffness. Movement can also help in sensing orientation, location, position as well as the motion of the ankle, which is known as proprioception. However, there can be ankle sprain injuries that can be more severe, such as high ankle sprains, which can be more difficult to treat, and could require surgical intervention.