Torn Ligament in Ankle

An ankle sprain, also known as a twisted ankle, is a common injury that occurs when ligaments are stretched beyond their normal range of motion. Ligaments are bands of tissue that connect bones. The ankle joint is formed when a bone named talus articulates with lower leg bones called tibia and fibula. While ligaments that are present in the lateral (outer) side of the ankle joint are called anterior and posterior talofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament, it is deltoid ligament that supports the ankle joint on the inside. An ankle ligament injury could occur when the ligaments are stretched beyond their normal range due to an inward/outward twisting or rolling motion.

More often than not, a sudden twist in ankle may occur while landing from a jump or running on an uneven surface. Though an ankle sprain is one of the most common sports injuries, it could occur anytime. One could end up with an ankle sprain while walking or climbing stairs. Rolling or twisting motions of the foot can cause the ligaments to get overstretched. The ligaments in the ankle could even get partially/completely torn. When that happens, a person might suffer from pain and face difficulty while walking. The intensity of pain will vary depending on the severity of the ligament tear.

Symptoms of a Torn Ligament in the Ankle

The common symptoms of such ankle ligament injuries are pain, tenderness, bruising and swelling in the affected ankle. One may also experience stiffness in the ankle joint. The symptoms and recovery time will vary depending on the extent of tearing. An ankle sprain is classified into first degree sprain, second degree sprain and third degree sprain. A mild pain, swelling and tenderness are the common signs of a first degree sprain. A first degree sprain occurs when the ligament gets overstretched. This could cause microscopic tearing of collagen fibers. A second degree sprain is associated with a partial tearing of the collagen fibers. It often leads to bruising, swelling and tenderness in the ankle. The intensity of pain is more and affected person will find it difficult to walk. A third degree sprain occurs when there is a complete rupture or tearing of the ligament in ankle. It is characterized by massive swelling, bruising and severe pain.

Treatment of a Torn Ligament in the Ankle

Usually R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) guidelines are followed for the treatment of ankle sprains. A person who has been diagnosed with an ankle ligament injury must take rest to allow the ligaments to heal. Swelling can be alleviated by applying ice packs. However, make sure that you don't apply the ice directly on the skin. Wrap it in a clean towel and place it over the sprained ankle for 15-20 minutes. Ice packs will constrict the blood vessels and help in alleviating pain to some extent.

If the pain is excruciating, you must consult a doctor soon. An X-ray examination might be required to assess the extent of injury. It is important to find out if the pain is caused by a torn ligament in ankle or a fractured bone. If the ligament has ruptured, you will probably have to wear a cast to compress or hold the ligament in place while it heals. Don't put pressure on the affected ankle. Keep it elevated. You can prop it up on stacked pillows as you sleep. Use crutches so as to avoid putting pressure on the injured ankle. You could also benefit from physical therapy sessions. Make sure that the ligament has healed completely before indulging in any physical activity.

Recovery time for a torn ligament in the ankle will vary depending on the severity of ligament tear. If the ligaments are affected by a first degree sprain, one may recover within 2-6 weeks. In case of a partially torn ligament, one may take 4-8 weeks to recover. In case of a complete rupture, the ligament could take 8-12 weeks to heal. The earlier one visits the doctor, the better. If one doesn't follow the guidelines and the necessary precautions suggested by the doctor, one would take longer to recover. Rest is very important. Any strain to the torn ligament can cause complications. So, take ample rest and follow the advice given by your doctor.

This was some information on ankle ligament injuries. While R.I.C.E. guidelines are often used for alleviating the symptoms of a first degree and second degree ankle sprain, a timely medical treatment is essential for a third degree ankle sprain. Once the ligament heals, one may also be required to perform certain exercises to restore the normal range of motion of the ankle joint.