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Sprained Ankle – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments of the ankle joint are overstretched or torn. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
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A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments of the ankle joint are overstretched or torn. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
What Is a Sprained Ankle?
A sprained ankle (medically known as an ankle distortion or lateral ligament sprain) is one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries. It occurs when the ankle joint is forced into an unnatural position, causing the stabilizing ligaments to be stretched, partially torn, or completely ruptured. The ligaments on the outer side of the ankle are most frequently affected.
Causes
An ankle sprain typically results from sudden, uncontrolled movements of the foot. Common causes include:
- Rolling the ankle during sports such as football, basketball, or running
- Stepping on uneven ground
- Tripping or slipping during everyday activities
- Wearing inappropriate footwear that lacks ankle support
- Previous ankle injuries that have left the joint less stable
Symptoms
Depending on the severity of the injury, the following symptoms may occur:
- Pain around the ankle, especially when bearing weight or touching the area
- Swelling and fluid accumulation around the joint
- Bruising (hematoma) caused by small ruptured blood vessels
- Reduced range of motion in the ankle joint
- A feeling of instability when walking
Grades of Ankle Sprain
- Grade I: Mild stretching of the ligaments without tearing; slight swelling
- Grade II: Partial tear of one or more ligaments; noticeable swelling and pain
- Grade III: Complete rupture of a ligament; significant joint instability
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination, during which the physician assesses areas of tenderness, swelling, and joint stability. An X-ray is often taken to rule out a fracture. In cases of suspected severe ligament damage, an MRI scan (magnetic resonance imaging) may be recommended.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the grade of the sprain. As an immediate measure, the RICE protocol is widely recommended:
- Rest: Stop all activity immediately
- Ice: Apply an ice pack (never directly on the skin) for 15–20 minutes
- Compression: Apply a compression bandage to reduce swelling
- Elevation: Raise the affected leg to reduce blood flow to the area
Additional Treatment Options
- Physiotherapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen muscles and improve coordination and balance
- Braces and support bandages: Help stabilize the joint during recovery
- Pain relief medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can reduce pain and swelling
- Surgery: May be required in cases of complete ligament rupture (Grade III) or chronic ankle instability
Recovery Time and Prognosis
Mild sprains typically heal within 1–3 weeks. More severe injuries may take 6–12 weeks or longer to fully recover. Consistent rehabilitation is essential to prevent reinjury.
Prevention
The following measures can help prevent ankle sprains:
- Wearing appropriate, supportive footwear
- Regular balance and coordination training
- Warming up properly before physical activity
- Strengthening the muscles surrounding the ankle joint
References
- Kerkhoffs, G. M. et al. - Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention of Ankle Sprains. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2012.
- Wolfe, M. W., Uhl, T. L., Mattacola, C. G., McCluskey, L. C. - Management of Ankle Sprains. American Family Physician, 2001.
- World Health Organization (WHO) - International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11): Sprain of Ankle, 2022.
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