An ankle sprain is an injury to
one or more ligaments in the ankle, usually on the outside
of the ankle. They occur when a ligament connecting bones or
cartilage of the ankle is strained (overly stretched),
ruptured, or torn.
Ankle sprains can be classified by the extent of damage to
the ligament. First degree sprains are the most common and
the mildest. In first degree sprains, ligaments are overly
stretched but not torn, and pain and swelling are minimal.
The injured person can put weight on the ankle. In moderate,
second degree sprains, the ligament is partially torn, and
pain and swelling are greater due to bleeding from torn
tissue. Third degree sprains are the most serious, and can
even (rarely) require surgery. A third degree sprain
requires a long period of rehabilitation to heal fully. A
third degree sprain may be accompanied by a popping sound
and your ankle may look strangely twisted. Swelling is
usually severe; the skin may be discolored. Weight cannot be
put on the injured ankle.
What is the cause?
They usually result from the
foot turning inward, stretching or tearing the ligaments on
the outside of the ankle. Ankle sprains commonly occur while
participating in sports, wearing inappropriate shoes, or
walking or running on an uneven surface. Sometimes ankle
sprains occur because of weak ankles, a condition that some
people are born with. Previous ankle or foot injuries can
also weaken the ankle and lead to sprains.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of an ankle sprain
include severe pain; inability to put weight on the foot;
swelling; bruising, as well as the feeling of instability.
What is the treatment?
Rest and stay off the foot.
Elevate it above the level of your hips whenever possible.
Even a mild sprain can take one or two weeks to heal.
Apply ice to the ankle as often as possible for the first
two or three days following the injury.
Use an elastic bandage to compress the swelling.
Take aspirin or an anti-inflammatory medication to relieve
pain and reduce swelling.
Use crutches or a cane to keep the weight off your foot.
In more severe cases, surgery may be required to adequately
treat an ankle sprain. Surgery often involves repairing the
damaged ligament or ligaments.
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