Ankle Sprain
Ankle Sprain Q&A
What is an ankle sprain?
Sprains involve damage to a ligament, which is a strong band of tissue that connects bone to bone. An ankle sprain happens when one of the ligaments around your ankle stretches beyond its means and subsequently tears.
Ankle sprains range in severity depending on how badly the ligament is damaged. A mild sprain happens when there are microscopic tears in the ligament fibers. Moderate and severe sprains involve partial or complete tears in the ligament, which could be the result of repetitive trauma to the ankle ligaments. You can also cause damage to the (peroneal) tendons that are located on the outside of your ankle. Lastly, in severe cases, there can be broken bones (i.e., fibula, anterior process of the calcaneus, and fifth metatarsal).
When a ligament in your ankle tears in a moderate or severe sprain, the joint becomes very unstable. Without treatment, this can lead to bone and cartilage damage in your ankle.
What causes ankle sprains?
Ankle sprains happen when you twist or roll your foot beyond its typical range of motion. You can sprain your ankle during almost any activity, including walking down the stairs. People who play sports that involve cutting actions or rolling and twisting your foot, like soccer and trail running, may be at higher risk for sprained ankles. Some patients may have a long history of "rolling their ankle" and sometimes even complain of feeling "unstable like their ankle is giving out".
How do I know if my ankle is sprained?
Signs and symptoms of a sprained ankle vary depending on the severity of your injury, but they often include:
- Ankle pain or tenderness
- Swelling and bruising
- Ankle instability
- Restricted range of motion
If you tear a ligament, you may experience a popping sound or sensation at the time of injury. Severe ankle sprains have similar signs and symptoms as a broken bone and require prompt treatment.
How are sprained ankles diagnosed and treated?
First, Dr. Charles carefully examines your foot and ankle. He may gently press different areas around your ankle to determine which ligament is sprained. He may also take an X-ray to rule out a broken bone.
Then, Dr. Charles recommends the best course of treatment for your particular condition. Most sprained ankles improve without surgery, even when the ligament is completely torn. Nonsurgical treatment for a sprained ankle includes:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the RICE protocol)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Immobilization in a brace or cast
- Physical therapy
Learn More
Ankle sprains are one of the most common sports injuries, affecting people of all ages. Fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Charles Sisovsky, DPM, AACFAS, at American Health Network, Optum Orthopedics, in New Albany, IN offers a number of treatment options. If you think you have suffered a sprained ankle, call or book an appointment online today.