Ankle Sprains

Signs and symptoms of a sprained ankle vary depending on the severity of the injury. They may include:

• Pain, especially when you bear weight on the affected foot
• Tenderness when you touch the ankle
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Restricted range of motion
• Instability in the ankle
• Popping sensation or sound at the time of injury

Causes of a sprained ankle might include:

• A fall that causes your ankle to twist
• Landing awkwardly on your foot after jumping or pivoting
• Walking or exercising on an uneven surface
• Another person stepping or landing on your foot during a sports activity

Ankle sprains can be diagnosed fairly easily given that they are common injuries. Pain on the outside of the ankle, tenderness and swelling, and an ankle with an inversion-type injury may indicate a sprain. In these patients, normal X-rays also suggest that the bone has not been broken and instead the ankle ligaments have been torn or sprained.

Treating your sprained ankle properly may prevent chronic pain and instability. For a Grade 1 sprain, follow the R.I.C.E. guidelines:

• Rest your ankle by not walking on it until you can do it comfortably (this may require a boot brace or lace up brace).
• Ice it to keep the swelling down. Don’t put ice directly on the skin (use a thin piece of cloth between the ice bag and skin) and don’t ice more than 20 minutes at a time to avoid frostbite.
• Compressive bandages help to immobilize and support your injury.
• Elevate your ankle above your heart level for 48 hours. The swelling usually goes down within a few days.

For a Grade 2 sprain, follow the R.I.C.E. guidelines and allow more time for healing. A doctor may immobilize or splint your ankle.

A Grade 3 sprain puts you at risk for permanent ankle looseness (instability), especially if not treated appropriately. Surgery rarely is needed to repair the damage, but may be common in competitive athletes who want an expedited recovery and patients who experience chronic ankle instability

The best way to prevent ankle sprains is to maintain good muscle strength, balance, and flexibility. The following precautions will help prevent sprains:

• Warm up thoroughly before exercise and physical activity
• Pay careful attention when walking, running, or working on an uneven surface
• Wear shoes that are made for your activity
• Slow down or stop activities when you feel pain or fatigue