Definition
What is an Ankle Sprain?
Ankle Sprains are injuries resulting from stretching, which tears part or all of the joint attachments in the ankle joint. Joints are bundles of strong and flexible tendons that are connected to bones. Tendons connect muscles and bones.
How common are ankle sprains?
Ankle sprains are common, especially in sports like basketball and soccer, or in people who wear high heels a lot.
Signs & Symptoms
What are the signs and symptoms of an ankle sprain?
Signs and symptoms of an ankle sprain include:
Like there is a jolt or tear in the ankle
Pain is felt during the injury and even after, when walking or moving the ankles
The skin around the ankles can become bruised
With serious injuries, the pain is so extreme that you can't move your ankles
Numbness in the legs can mean a nerve or blood vessel problem
There may be other signs or symptoms not listed above. If you experience any of the symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
When should I see a doctor?
If you have any of the signs or symptoms mentioned above or have any questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body moves differently. Consultation with your doctor is a good thing, according to your situation.
Reasons
What causes ankle sprains?
Injury occurs when the joint is forced to bend more than normal, causing pain in the joint. The most common type is when the legs bend inward, and the entire body weight is supported by the ankles. The legs may also bend too far outward (turn over).
Risk factors
What increases my risk for an ankle sprain?
There are many risk factors for ankle sprains, such as:
Have you had an ankle sprain before?
Running or walking on an uneven surface
Shoes or sports equipment that don't fit
Doing sports that require a lot of leg movement such as soccer or basketball
Treatment
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.
What are my treatment options for an ankle sprain?
Ankle sprains should be treated immediately after the injury. Prior to treatment at a local health center, you can:
Immediately compress with ice cubes, because swelling occurs quickly. Do not compress with warm/hot objects within 72 hours of the injury or the swelling will worsen
Use crutches to rest your feet
Keep going slowly
Compress or bandage the ankles and hold the feet parallel to the height of the hips
Physical therapy can strengthen muscles, aid recovery, and help prevent injury.
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can be taken to reduce swelling and relieve pain. Severe injuries may require further surgery and physical therapy.
What are the usual tests for ankle sprains?
The doctor will ask about your injury and examine the ankle by moving it to see where the joints and tendons are attached.
For minor injuries, no tests are needed. For severe injuries, the doctor may order a review with x-rays or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).
Home Remedies
What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat ankle sprains?
The following lifestyle and home remedies can help you deal with ankle sprains:
Wear ankle pads when exercising if you get injured frequently
Lose weight if you are overweight
Take medication and use the support recommended by your doctor
Remember four important things: rest, ice cubes, compress, lift.
Call your doctor if you can't walk or your ankle is injured, the swelling doesn't go away after 2 days or it gets worse, or you feel a pinching tear in the ankle.
Call your doctor if your feet are numb, tingle, blue or black in color, or your big toe is cold (a sign of blocked circulation).
Call your doctor if you don't feel better within 7 to 10 days after the Injury
If you have any questions, consult a doctor for the best solution for your problem.