Ankle Sprains

Overview

An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ligaments – fibrous bands of tissue that provide stability to the joint – are stretched or torn from excessive force such as a sudden twisting during sports, stepping on an uneven surface, or a blow to the ankle.

Medial Eversion

Occurs when the foot rolls inward (eversion), injuring the ligaments on the medial, or inside, of the ankle.

Degree of Injury

Ankle sprains are generally “graded” according to the extent of injury: A first degree sprain is an injury in which one or ligaments are stretched, accompanied by mild pain, bruising, inflammation, difficulty walking, and tenderness. A second degree sprain occurs when one or more ligaments are partially ton, producing moderate pain and disability, bruising, inflammation, and the inability to bear weight. A third degree sprain is an injury in which one or more ligaments are completely torn, joint instability, and loss of function.

Types of Sprains

Lateral Inversion
Over 85% of all the ankle sprains occurs when the foot rolls outward (inversion), injuring the ligament on the lateral, or outside, of the ankle. The anterior talofibular is the most commonly injured ligament.

Syndesmosos (High Ankle)
The least common of all ankle sprains, this injury occurs in the upper part of the ankle when the foot rolls in inward, accompanied by the internal rotation of the tibia. It is the, most often occurs in the contact sports.

Treatment

Acute ankle sprains should be treated with RICE – rest, ice, compression, and elevation – and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on the degree of the injury, and pain. Depending on the degree of injury, a brace, cast or walking boot may be needed. Early rehabilitation with home exercise or formal physical therapy can improve range of motion and speed healing.