What You Need to Know About Ankle Injuries

What You Need to Know About Ankle Injuries

Table of Contents

• There are three main types of ankle injuries
• Symptoms of ankle injuries include the following

Ankle injuries are a common problem for athletes and people who are active in everyday life. Most ankle injuries are called sprains. A sprain is a stretching or tearing of the ligaments that causes the ankle joint to move out of its normal range of motion. Sprains usually occur when the foot rotates abnormally inward or outward.

The severity and recovery time of ankle injuries depend on the degree of ligament damage and the type of injury.

There are three main types of ankle injuries:

• Inversion sprain: This is the most common ankle injury. It is the injury of the ligaments on the inside of the ankle joint as a result of the foot turning outwards. These ligaments are called lateral ligaments. Inversion sprains are usually mild or moderate and heal within a few weeks.
• Eversion sprain: This is a more rare ankle injury. It is when the ligaments on the outside of the ankle joint are damaged as a result of the foot turning inwards. These ligaments are called medial ligaments. Eversion sprains are usually more severe and require a longer recovery.
• High sprain: This is the most serious and rarest ankle injury. It is an injury to the ligaments called the syndesmosis, which holds the ankle joint together and connects the leg to the foot. High sprains usually occur when the foot is pulled forcefully forward or backward. High ankle sprains are very painful and require long-term recovery.

Symptoms of ankle injuries include the following:

• Swelling
• Bruising
• Aches
• Movement limitation
• Stepping
• Crunching or a feeling of looseness in the joint

To diagnose ankle injuries, your doctor will perform a physical examination and, if necessary, order imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs. The RICE method is usually used to treat ankle injuries. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. This method is used to reduce swelling, relieve pain and speed healing.

• Rest: The first thing to do when the ankle is injured is to rest. You should move as little as possible to avoid overloading the injured area. In some cases, your doctor may recommend aids such as crutches or splints.
• Ice: The second thing to do when the ankle is injured is to apply ice. Ice reduces swelling and bleeding by constricting blood vessels. It also relieves pain. To apply ice, you can wrap an ice pack or something like frozen peas in a thin towel and apply it to the injured area for 15-20 minutes. You can repeat this 3-4 times a day.
• Compression: The third thing to do when the ankle is injured is to apply compression. Compression is applying gentle pressure to the injured area using an elastic bandage or splint. This is done to prevent swelling and support the joint. The bandage or splint should not be too tight, as this can block blood flow.
• Elevation: The fourth thing to do when the ankle is injured is to elevate it. Elevation is lifting the injured area above the level of the heart. This allows blood to flow back, reducing swelling and bruising.

Apart from the RICE method, your doctor may also prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs. In some cases, physical therapy may also be needed. Physical therapy includes exercises to strengthen muscles, increase flexibility and prevent recurring injuries.

Very rarely, surgical intervention may also be needed. Surgery is performed if the ligaments are completely torn or there is severe damage to the joint.

You can follow the tips below to prevent ankle injuries:

• Do warm-up exercises,
• Wear appropriate footwear,
• Avoid uneven or slippery floors,
• Avoid sudden movements or strain,
• Improve your balance,
• Stretch and strengthen your muscles.