Ankle Sprain

Ankle Sprain Definition:

overstretching of one or more of the ligaments of the ankle.  The severity of an ankle sprain is graded from 1 to 3, 1 being mild overstretching of the ligament, 2 is severe overstretching that results in partial tearing of the ligament and the 3rd grade is a complete rupture of the ligament.

Affected Body Parts:

• Ligaments of the ankle
• Talus bone
• Tibia
• Fibula
• Soft tissue in the ankle and surrounding the ankle

Signs & Symptoms:

• Pain in ankle
• Tearing or popping sound heard at time of injury
• Sensation of tearing felt at time of injury
• Tenderness in ankle upon palpation
• Swelling in ankle
• Instability when trying to walk of move using the ankle

Risk Factors:

• Extreme stress put on side of ankle
• Previous ankle injury
• Sports or activities that require sideways movement of the ankle such as basketball,soccer etc
• Improper footwear for the sport or activity being performed
• Running or walking on hard surfaces that are uneven such as road with potholes or field with holes in it

Prevention:

• Proper warm up
• Proper stretching
• Wrap or tape ankle for added support if you have a history of ankle sprains or other ankle injuries
• Wear the proper footwear for the activity you are doing
• Strength training program to help build the strength of the supporting muscles of the lower leg and ankle
• Flexibility training program to ensure proper flexibility and range of motion in the ankle and lower leg