Sports Injuries: Ankle Injury

What Is an Ankle Sprain?

An ankle sprain is an injury which occurs when there is excessive tearing and stretching of the surrounding ligaments. This injury usually happens when the ankle is being forced into a position that is not normally come across. This is the most common ankle injury.

Causes of Ankle Sprains

The most common time for an ankle sprain to occur is when you are running or jumping on an uneven surface and you apply weight to your foot when it is in an inverted or everted position. The foot rolls in (inversion) or out (eversion) and the ligaments are stretched. Occasionally a loud "snap" or "pop" is heard at the time of the sprain.

This is usually followed by pain and swelling of the ankle.
Ankle sprains are classified by the degree of severity. These are:Grade I - stretch and/or minor tear of the ligament without laxity (loosening)

• Grade II - tear of ligament plus some laxity
• Grade III - complete tear of the affected ligament (very loose)

Treatment of Ankle Sprains

Immediate relief and early treatment can be attained by following this treatment plan;
R est
I ce
C ompresstion
E levation

It is important to minimilise the swelling in the ankle as many of the problems resulting from sprains are due to blood and oedema in and around the ankle. After applying the ice, wrap the ankle in an ACE bandage to keep it supported and compressed. An anti-inflammatory can be helpful to reduce pain and inflammation for the first 7 to 10 days after the injury.
Gradually build up the amount of weight that you put onto you ankle over a period of approximately a week. A range of motion exercises can be introduced early in the course of treatment. One simple exercise is to draw the letters of the alphabet with your toes. Gradual progression to weight-bearing exercises should follow.
Any ankle injury that does not respond to treatment in 1-2 weeks may be more serious. Always consult a physician for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis.

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