![](/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ankle-sprain.jpg)
What is an ankle sprain?
Your ankle is the joint that connects your leg to your foot. This joint is made up of bone and is connected to three ligaments. These ligaments keep the bones from moving out of place. An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ligaments are stretched or torn.
Sprained ankles are divided into three grades, based on severity.
- Grade 1: Mild sprain. It is the most popular. In this case, the ligament is stretched rather than torn. You may have mild pain and stiffness, but you should still be able to walk.
- Grade 2: Moderate sprain. In this case, one or more ligaments are partially torn. Your ankle will probably be swollen, you will feel moderate pain, and it will be difficult to stand on that foot.
- Grade 3: Severe sprain. Here, one or more ligaments are completely broken. Your ankle will be unstable, the pain will be intense, and you will not be able to move your ankle.
Symptoms of an ankle sprain
Symptoms of an ankle sprain include:
- Pain or pain
- Swelling
- Bruises
- stiffness
- Cold or numbness in your feet
- Inability to walk or put weight on that foot
With mild sprains, you may experience stiffness while walking. That should get better in a few days to weeks. People with moderate to severe sprains may be limited to several weeks. And they can have ankle pain for a year or more.
What causes an ankle sprain?
Ankle sprains often occur during physical activity. They can sometimes happen when you walk or run on rough surfaces. Unevenness can cause you to fall, land on the wrong ankle, and sprain.
People with high arches or weak muscles are more prone to ankle sprains. If you’ve sprained your ankle before, you’re more likely to sprain it again.
How is an ankle sprain diagnosed?
Your doctor can diagnose an ankle sprain. He or she will examine your ankle and ask about your symptoms and activity. Your doctor may take X-rays to confirm your ankle is not broken or cracked. After they diagnose the sprain, the doctor will determine the grade. This will determine the type of treatment you receive. If your ankle is not getting better, your doctor may order an MRI. This is a type of image that allows him or her to see the ligaments inside your ankle.
Can ankle sprains be prevented or avoided?
There are ways to help prevent ankle sprains. Certain exercises can strengthen your ankle and the muscles around it. These exercises stabilize your ankle and improve your balance. Stretching before and after exercise is also important. Your doctor will show you which exercises are best.
Wear supportive shoes, whether or not you’ve sprained your ankle before. This helps prevent your foot from twisting or your ankle joint from shifting out of place. You may also find it helpful to wear an ankle brace when playing sports, running, or jogging. This can add stability to your ankle.
How to treat an ankle sprain?
You can treat a lot of ankle sprains at home. Doctors recommend the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) method, listed below.
- Rest: All ankle sprains require rest. The length of time will depend on the extent of the sprain. Your doctor can help you with some time. You may need to use crutches if it hurts to put weight on your foot.
- Ice: Ice helps reduce swelling, bruising, pain, and muscle spasms. Applying ice to the ankle is helpful, but be careful. Place a thin, damp cloth on your ankle before applying ice. That will help protect your skin from frostbite. In addition, the cold can also damage your nerves if you leave the ice cold for too long. You should only use ice for up to 20 minutes at a time. If your skin feels numb, it’s time to remove the ice. Use an ice treatment every 2 to 4 hours for the first 3 days after the injury.
- Compression: Wrap the sprained ankle to prevent swelling and bruising. You may need to do this for several days or a week after your injury. Your doctor can show you the best way to do this.
- Elevation: Raise your ankles to or above your heart level. This prevents the swelling from getting worse and reduces bruising. Keep your ankle elevated for 2 to 3 hours a day.
For pain relief, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications. Examples include acetaminophen (brand name: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (brand name: Advil, Motrin, or Nuprin).
You will need additional treatment for a higher grade ankle sprain. Your doctor may put you in a cast, boots, or splints. This will keep the ligaments and joints in place while they heal. It restricts movement, protects, and helps relieve pain. You may need to wear it for 2 to 6 weeks. Your doctor may also refer you to physical therapy. The amount and length of treatment will depend on the extent of the sprain and your medical condition.
Living with a sprained ankle
Ankle sprains are common, but they will heal on their own. However, depending on the extent of your sprain, you may not be able to return to normal activities immediately. Your doctor can provide a time frame for your situation. After you return to normal activities, you may still need to wear an ankle brace or bandage for support and protection.
Your doctor or physical therapist can provide a list of ankle exercises for you to do. This will help strengthen your muscles. He or she will tell you when to start the exercises and how long to do them. Depending on the severity of the sprain, you may need to have them done for several weeks. It is important that you do the exercises for the length of time your doctor recommends. This will help prevent future sprains.