Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are by far the most common injury in sports. An ankle sprain

can occur by a twisting type injury causing the ankle to turn inward or

outward. This motion stretches the ligaments around the ankle joint.

(Ligaments are bands of tissue that attach bone to bone.) The ligaments

along with muscles and tendons around the ankle give stability to the joint.

Some symptoms of a sprained ankle include:

1.Pain

2.Swelling

3.Bruising

4.Stiffness

All of these symptoms combined may make walking impossible. Usually

there is no pain when palpating the bones of the ankle (Tibia, Fibula and

Talus). If pain is present over the bones this suggests that there may be

further injury to the ankle.

Ankle sprains are diagnosed by your orthopedist. X-rays are obtained to

ensure that there is no fracture of the bones that make up the ankle joint.

Treatment and recovery from the injury will depend on the severity of the

sprain. Sprains are graded: I being minimal damage to the ligaments. II

moderate injury. III tearing of the ligaments causing the joint to be loose.

Initial treatment usually includes the following:

RICE

Rest:

Crutches may be needed for ambulation due to pain. Also

immobilization may be necessary, using an air cast, removable boot or

cast. ce:

This should be applied for 20 minutes every 2 hours for the first 2-3

days. Always apply at least a paper towel over the skin before

applying ice to avoid a burn. A frozen bag of peas or reusable gel

pack can be used as a substitute for ice.

Compression:

Wrapping an ace bandage starting from the toes and following up the

leg will help to reduce the swelling in the ankle.

Elevation:

Keeping the ankle on pillows above the level of the heart will also

help to reduce swelling.

**The second phase of treatment for an ankle sprain is:

Rehabilitation Exercises:

Range of Motion:

Either sitting or laying down draw the alphabet with your foot.

Do this twice.

Towel Stretches:

While seated with your legs extended in front of you – put a towel

around the ball of your foot and gently pull towards your body until

you feel a stretch behind your ankle. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat

10 times. Repeat on opposite leg.

Standing Calf Stretch:

While facing a wall put both hands up against it – put your injured leg

behind you and your uninjured leg bent in front of you. Lean forward

until you feel a stretch behind your ankle. Hold this for 10 seconds,

repeat 10 times. Repeat on opposite leg. (Never bounce with any

stretching exercise.)

isometric Exercises:

While seated find a stationary object, such as the leg of a table or an

opening of a doorway. Push your foot inward against the object and

hold for 10 seconds - repeat 3 sets of 10 repetitions. Now with the

same ankle but use the lateral or outside of your foot to push against

the fixed object.

Heel Raises:

Stand behind a chair to balance yourself. Slowly raise up on both of

your heels and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat this for 3 sets of 10

repetitions.

Balancing:

As your ankle is getting stronger you can begin this exercise. Stand by

a wall, for balance. Put all your weight on the injured ankle and lift

the heel. Lift opposite leg up in the air so you are balancing on one

leg. Hold for 10 seconds repeat 10 times. Alternate between legs.

Returning to sports or activities require:

1. Full range of motion of the ankle has returned.

2. Full strength.

3. You must be able to sprint straight ahead and cut on different

angles.

4. Continue strengthening exercises.

5. A supportive ankle brace or taping is recommended following

severe or recurrent sprains. (E.g. Air Splint; Lace Up; Active

Ankle)