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Ankle Sprain
Ankle sprain is the common ankle injury caused with twisting movement of foot or straining of the ligaments of the ankle joint.
Chances of ankle sprain are more during sports activities particularly athletics or during day to day activities. The ligaments which control the movement of the joint are overstretched or torn by the injury.
How does Ankle Sprain occur?
Ankle sprain can be seen mostly those landing on an irregular and uneven surface after jumping or coming down from stairs. This irregular movement of foot on uneven surface causes sudden twisting of ankle. Ankle sprain can also occur during routine activities for example stepping off a curb.
Symptoms of Ankle Sprain:
The pain along with swelling and bruising is the most common symptom of ankle sprain. Ankle sprain has three varying degrees of severity.
- In the first degree of severity, ankle pain occurs with minor damage to ligaments through stretching or tearing. The symptoms are confined to pain, swelling and stiffness in joint.
- The second degree of severity is the partial tearing of the ligament and mild looseness of the joint. The symptoms are associated with swelling and bruising caused by bleeding under the skin and moderate joint instability and stiffness. The patients feel pain while walking.
- In the third degree of severity the ligament is torn completely and joint becomes loose and unstable. The symptoms are associated with complete rupture of ligament, total joint instability, severe pain in the beginning and swelling.
First aid for Ankle Sprain :
- Application of R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation).
- Apply heat on the injured portion with a hot water bottle or electric heating belt. It would be better, if heat is applied after first 48 hours of injury.
- Take anti-inflammatory drug as prescribed by your doctor. Ibuprofen is one such drug which may help reduce pain and swelling.
- Go to physical therapist for massaging.
- Tape the injured ankle protect it from further damage. However, don't depend altogether on this as it may weaken the joint.
- Take bed rest for seven days or more in accordance with the condition of your ankle.
- Meet sports injury expert who can provide tips for regaining mobility and strength.
Rest- Curtail your activities to take rest. It is advisable to avoid weight bearing on the ankle for some time and use the crutches till you can walk without feeling pain.
Ice- Put ice on the injured area as soon as possible. The instant application of ice helps control bleeding, reduces pain and ensures quick recovery. The ice should be applied through ice pack for twenty minutes, four to eight times a day.
Compression- Firmly wrap your ankle with tape or elastic bandage to control bleeding and swelling.
Elevation-Lift your ankle higher than your heart whenever possible. While lying on bed, you can place books under your foot.
Prevention of Ankle Sprain:
Following are some tips for avoiding a sprained ankle:
- Warm up and stretch calf muscles prior to participating in sports activities or exercise programme.
- Don's run on uneven surface.
- Avoid participating in sports activities or exercise programme when you feel pain in ankle or tired.
- Avoid strains by strengthening the ankles rehabilitating them in case you had an injury.
- Apply protective equipment during sports.
- Wear properly fitting shoes.
- Exercise regularly. Those remaining inactive often suffer a sprain than.
- Take healthy and balanced diet to keep your muscles strong.
When to see a doctor:
- When you notice abnormal bending of your foot or leg
- When you have severe pain in your ankle, calf, knee, thigh or groin.
- When your foot becomes cool and turns pale.
- When you feel numbness or tingling in your foot or toes after injury.
- When you are unable to move your ankle.
- When you heard a popping sound at the time of injury.
- When you feel moderate pain and notice severe swelling or bruising around your ankle.
- When you are unable to walk or put weight on your affected foot, or when your ankle becomes unstable.