Ankles: Our Complex Support System
- Snow Sport & Spine Team
- Aug 1, 2023
- 2 min read
Sprained Ankles
Did you know there are 26 bones, 30 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments negotiating the collaboration of movement and support in your body in your feet?
Tens of thousands of Americans sprain an ankle every year. The effects of even a single sprained ankle can be substantial and lingering, altering how well we move for a long time. Ankles can be surprisingly fragile and vulnerable to clumsiness, like stepping awkwardly off a curb, sliding off your high heels, planting a foot wrong while running or playing a sport, and you overstretch or tear the ligaments around the joint and sprain your ankle. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE).
Symptoms
Pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the ankle are common. The severity of these symptoms depends on the grade of the sprain, influencing the recovery time and treatment approach. Grade I sprains may heal within a few weeks, while Grade III sprains can take several months, especially if surgery is needed.
Grading of Sprains (see fig.1 ):
Grade I (Mild): Minor stretching or tearing of ligament fibers, minimal swelling and tenderness.
Grade II (Moderate): Partial tear of the ligament, more significant swelling and pain when moving the ankle.
Grade III (Severe): Complete tear of the ligament, causing instability, significant swelling, and difficulty bearing weight.
Treatments:
RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation): This is the initial treatment for most sprains, helping to reduce swelling and pain.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen can help manage pain and swelling.
Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, including exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and balance, is often recommended to aid recovery and prevent future injuries.
Medical Evaluation: If the pain is severe, persistent, or if there is difficulty bearing weight, it's important to see a doctor to rule out a fracture and determine the appropriate treatment plan, which may include bracing or casting.
