5 frequently asked questions about ankle sprains

Ankle sprain is one of the first causes of emergency room visits, both in the athlete and in the sedentary patient. It occurs in the context of a fall or trauma to the ankle, injuring the lateral ligamentous complex that connects the fibula to the talus and calcaneus.

How do they normally occur?

Usually the mechanism is sprain or due to trauma in inversion of the ankle. It is frequent in sports of jumping or changes of direction, likewise it can be seen in the use of elevated shoe or the ambulation in irregular land.

What are the degrees of an ankle sprain and what is the difference between them?

Ankle sprains are classified into grades I, II and III.

  • I: mild sprain that allows ambulation with discomfort in the lateral area.
  • II: moderate sprain that allows ambulation with pain and presents edema in the lateral area.
  • III: severe sprain that prevents ambulation, presents edema and hematoma and the presence of fractures or any other hidden injury must be ruled out.

How are they treated?

The initial treatment in grades I and II is the protected load with ankle brace, sports rest, local ice or cryotherapy and functional rehabilitation.

In cases of severe sprain, it is advisable to rule out associated injuries before starting treatment.

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Can it be a “chronic” ankle sprain?

The ankle that is sprained in a first episode may not have a major impact on the future prognosis of the ankle, but when the ankle does not recover properly, instability may develop. This ankle instability manifests itself with pain, edema and a feeling of insecurity and failure.

In these cases, clinical assessment, MRI and possible ligament repair by arthroscopy are recommended.

How is the recovery of an ankle sprain?

Recovery in ankle sprains prioritizes immediate or early support, favoring mobility and decreasing edema and progressively increasing intensity and balance and strength exercises.

Progressive exercise is recommended between 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the case.

For more information about ankle sprains, contact a Traumatology specialist.