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An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligament in the ankle joint. It is caused by an injury due to the twisting mechanism of the ankle joint due to a fall, accident, or any other injury. In an ankle sprain, ligaments move more than their normal range of motion.
The lateral ligament complex is the main ligament affected by ankle sprain, accounting for 85% of all such cases. In that, the anterior talofibular ligament and the calcaneofibular ligament are the most common ligaments which get torn in an ankle sprain. 15% of the incidence is noted in the medial complex ligament.
Risk Factors Associated with an Ankle Sprain
According to the orthopedist in Bangalore, the following re the common risk factors:
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Fall from bike or accident
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Getting twisting injury while walking on uneven surfaces
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Fall from a jump and landing in an awkward position
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Any sports-related injuries like football injuries, cricket injuries, or any other
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Poor flexibility in the ankles.
What Are the Symptoms Associated with an Ankle Sprain?
Your ankle sprain symptoms may depend on the grade of tearing, and the following are the symptoms:
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Pain and swelling
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Redness in the joint
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Inability to bear weight on the ankle joint.
In grade 1, there is a mild degree of ankle sprain and slight ligament tearing with mild swelling. Grade 2 has a moderate degree of ankle sprain and incomplete ligament tearing with moderate pain and bruising. Grade 3 ankle sprain may have a severe degree of ankle sprain and complete ligament tearing with severe swelling, pain, and bruising.
How to Diagnose an Ankle Sprain?
Once you notice the symptoms mentioned above, the specialist may suggest a normal X-ray of the ankle joint, where they see the bone and ligaments. If any ligament injury is noted, then MRI is preferred to see whether any associated ligament injury is there.
Are There Any Complications Associated with Ankle Sprains?
If you don’t go for the diagnosis and treatment at the proper time, the situation may worsen, and you may have chronic pain (with ankle instability while walking), joint stiffness, or arthritis.
An ankle sprain should always be given rest for three weeks. You may be advised not to put weight on the ankle for the first three weeks because the ligament may take three weeks to heal.
What Are the Preventive Measures for Ankle Sprain?
The following points can help you to prevent a recurring ankle sprain:
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Warm up yourself before exercising and playing.
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Avoid high heel sandals or shoes.
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Practice balance exercises.
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Be careful while walking or running on an uneven surface.
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Always use an ankle support brace for a previously injured ankle.
Always visit an orthopaedic doctor if you have pain and swelling in your ankle. Never avoid signs and symptoms because you may have damage to your ligament or a broken bone in your ankle. Take preventive measures and follow up on the suggestion of your doctor to recover from the sprain.
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FAQs on Ankle Sprain
What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?
The most common symptoms of an ankle sprain include:
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Pain, swelling, and bruising
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Difficulty bearing weight on the ankle
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Instability in the ankle joint.
What are the risk factors for an ankle sprain?
The risk factors for an ankle sprain include:
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Previous ankle sprains
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Inflexible ankles
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Participating in sports that involve a lot of running and jumping
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Wearing high heels
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Walking or running on uneven surfaces.
How is an ankle sprain diagnosed?
Your doctor will typically diagnose an ankle sprain based on your medical history and physical examination. They may also order X-rays or an MRI to rule out other possible injuries, such as fractures. Visit the best orthopedic hospital in Bangalore for a proper checkup and treatment.
