What is an ankle sprain?
An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments of the ankle from spraining, straining, stretching or twisting. There are three types of ankle sprains depending on their severity:
- First-degree sprain is the least severe, as the ankle ligaments are not torn, the area is slightly swollen, sore and effusions may appear. In this case it is possible to return to physical activity in a short time with a functional bandage.
- In the second degree sprain, there is partial or total rupture of ligaments, pain and swelling are greater and less movements can be performed with the foot.
- In the third degree sprain, there is total rupture of ligaments, the pain is intense, the mobility of the foot is very reduced and the injury is accompanied by a much greater effusion. Therefore, surgery is sometimes required.
Prognosis of the disease
As a general rule, most ankle sprains are minor injuries, although there are cases that can be more serious.
Symptoms of an ankle sprain
The most relevant signs and symptoms of this injury are:
- Moderate pain
- Weakness
- Swelling
- Hematoma
- Joint stiffness
- Difficulty walking
In general, most ankle sprains are minor injuries.
Medical tests for an ankle sprain
Diagnosis is primarily clinical and is based on review of the patient’s history and examination by “dynamic” maneuvers such as the anterior drawer test, forced inversion, forced external rotation and pressure. An X-ray can be of great help in ruling out the existence of associated bone lesions or complete ligament ruptures.
What are the causes of an ankle sprain?
The sprain can be caused by a direct blow to the ankle or as a result of a fall, a bad support or a bad movement.
Can it be prevented?
Ankle sprains are impossible to prevent, but we can take a number of precautions to reduce the likelihood of sprains:
- Always do warm-up exercises and stretching techniques recommended for the ankles before playing sports or any other physical activity.
- Be careful when walking or running on uneven or pitted terrain.
- Avoid fatigue and tiredness, as they increase the likelihood of injury.
- Wearing compression bandages, ankle braces, or high-top shoes may help if there is a propensity for ankle sprains.
- Have quality footwear of the right size and wear them properly laced. In women, one of the main causes of ankle sprains is wearing high heels.
Treatments for an ankle sprain
Surgery is generally not necessary in the treatment for an ankle injury, as most ankle sprains are minor injuries and heal with minimal treatment. However, there are other cases that may be more serious.
Normally the treatment to follow for an ankle sprain consists of:
- Rest the ankle (at least the first 2 days).
- Cool the affected area for 20 minutes every two or three hours.
- Compress with an ankle brace and elevate the leg in a position where the toes are above nose level.
- Physical therapy can also be an important support for recovery.
Medications for an ankle sprain
Taking anti-inflammatory medications relieves pain and reduces ankle swelling.
What specialist treats it?
The appropriate specialist to treat an ankle sprain would be a specialist in Orthopedics and Traumatology.