Ankle Sprain

 

 

 

 

 

 


An ankle sprain is one of the most common injuries seen in sport. The most common is an inversion sprain where the ankle turns inwards which damages the ligaments on the outside (lateral) of the ankle. The medial ligament which is on the inside of the ankle can also become damaged, however this usually occurs as a result of an eversion sprain where the ankle turns outwards. The term "sprain" refers to stretching or tearing of a ligament.

"in some cases patients presenting with symptoms of an ankle sprain have not actually sprained their ligaments but slightly moved the bones in the ankle joint which mimic symptoms of an ankle sprain. In such cases patients have limped into the treatment room and walked out with no pain at all because treatment was focused on correcting the joint. However if the ligament is damaged then treatment is focused on healing of those fibres. Attention must also be shown to the lower back as many ankle sprains can be avoided if the lower back is functioning correctly" James Grigg

A sprained ligament has different classifications depending on the severity of the injury. These are:

First degree ankle sprain

- Some stretching of the ligament fibres
- Minimum pain or discomfort
- Minimal or no swelling
- Normal range of movement

Second degree ankle sprain

-  Considerable proportion of ligament fibres torn
- Instability of the joint
- Moderate to severe pain, sometime unable to weight bear initially
- Swelling and possible bruising 

Third degree ankle sprain

- Total rupture of the ligament
- Severe swelling and bruising
- Large joint instability
- Although grade three tears can be extremely painful, some can be pain
  free due to tearing of sensory nerve fibres.

Treating ankle sprains

Treatment of an ankle sprain must commence as early as possible in order to promote an optimal healing environment. Untreated ligaments result in excessive scar tissue that can stiffen up the joint and reduce range of motion. Many ankle sprain sufferers experience further sprains due to the ligament not healing or the rehabilitation process not being carried out correctly. Many factors need to be considered when treating ankle sprains, particularly the coordination of the muscles surrounding the ankle joint to protect it against further rupture.

At James Grigg Injury Clinic treatment of an ankle sprain is of the highest quality and is designed to not only rehabilitate the ankle but to prevent it re-occurring.

To receive the best treatment for your discomfort arrange an appointment today or if you have any questions please feel free to email