What is an Ankle Sprain?
The most frequent ankle sprain is an inversion injury. This occurs when the foot turns inwards causing a stretching of the lateral ankle components. The most common injury resulting from this inversion is a partial tear of the ligaments that join the lower leg bone to the foot. Many physicians grade ankle sprains on a 3-point scale. Grade 1 is a mild stretch of the ligaments, grade 2 is a partial tear, and grade 3 is a complete tear of the ligaments of the ankle.
What is the Treatment for an Ankle Sprain?
The sooner treatment is initiated for a sprained ankle, the better. Immediate treatment should consist of rest, ice, compression, and elevation, also known as R.I.C.E. The ice can be applied for about 15 minutes at a time and repeated multiple times during the course of a day. Wrapping of the ankle with an Ace bandage or the use of an ankle sleeve can also help with both the swelling and can support the ankle structures taking pressure off of the joint. Elevation helps to reduce swelling as well. If at all possible, any prolonged walking or weight bearing should be avoided initially. The best exercise to do after an ankle sprain is simple non-weight bearing stretching, doing both forward and backward stretches as well as moving the foot in small circles to help stretch out the ankle ligaments.
Should I see a Doctor?
If there is any question as to whether a tear has occurred, then evaluation by a physician may be necessary. X-rays are usually not necessary.
How Long Will It Hurt?
Even a mild ankle sprain can take a few weeks to heal. More serious sprains may require surgical treatment.
The most frequent ankle sprain is an inversion injury. This occurs when the foot turns inwards causing a stretching of the lateral ankle components. The most common injury resulting from this inversion is a partial tear of the ligaments that join the lower leg bone to the foot. Many physicians grade ankle sprains on a 3-point scale. Grade 1 is a mild stretch of the ligaments, grade 2 is a partial tear, and grade 3 is a complete tear of the ligaments of the ankle.
What is the Treatment for an Ankle Sprain?
The sooner treatment is initiated for a sprained ankle, the better. Immediate treatment should consist of rest, ice, compression, and elevation, also known as R.I.C.E. The ice can be applied for about 15 minutes at a time and repeated multiple times during the course of a day. Wrapping of the ankle with an Ace bandage or the use of an ankle sleeve can also help with both the swelling and can support the ankle structures taking pressure off of the joint. Elevation helps to reduce swelling as well. If at all possible, any prolonged walking or weight bearing should be avoided initially. The best exercise to do after an ankle sprain is simple non-weight bearing stretching, doing both forward and backward stretches as well as moving the foot in small circles to help stretch out the ankle ligaments.
Should I see a Doctor?
If there is any question as to whether a tear has occurred, then evaluation by a physician may be necessary. X-rays are usually not necessary.
How Long Will It Hurt?
Even a mild ankle sprain can take a few weeks to heal. More serious sprains may require surgical treatment.
This information is intended for educational
purposes only and is not intended to replace advice
from your personal physician.