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Ankle Sprain
What is Ankle Instability
An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more ligaments in the ankle, usually on the outside of the ankle. Ligaments are bands of tissue-like rubber bands- that connect one bone to another and bind the joints together. In the ankle joint ligaments provide stability by limiting side to side movement. Some ankle sprains are worse than others. The severity of an ankle sprain depends on whether the ligament or ligaments are stretched or torn. Ankle sprains are not all created equal, and some require more attention than others.
Causes
Sprained ankles often result from a fall, a sudden twist or a blow that forces the ankle joint out of its normal position. Ankle sprains commonly occur while participating in sports, wearing inappropriate shoes or walking/running on uneven surfaces. Previous ankle or foot injuries can also weaken the ankle and make the patient more susceptible to further ankle injuries .
Symptoms
Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, or stiffness. Any ankle sprain, whether it's your first or your fifth, requires prompt medical attention. Delay in treatment can lead to chronic ankle instability or a more severe secondary foot and ankle injuries.
Diagnosis
In evaluating your injury, your foot and ankle surgeon will obtain a thorough history of your symptoms and examine the injury. X-rays or other advanced imaging may be ordered to help determine the severity of the injury.
Treatment
Non-surgical
- Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation,
- Early physical therapy
- Medications- NSAIDs
Surgical
Surgery is often needed in cases of failed conservative therapy or cases of more severe instability with or without an underlying high arched foot. Surgery involves repair or reconstruction of the ligaments in the outside ankle. In cases where there is a high arched foot, an osteotomy of the heel bone can be done to realign the heel bone and decrease the risk of ankle sprains.