What is an ankle sprain?
A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle extend beyond their limits or tore. Ligaments are difficult tissue strips that stabilize the joints. The sprains occur fluently when the foot twists or rolls unexpectedly, causing the exit of the articulation of the ankle from its normal position.
What causes an ankle sprain?
The ankle sprains generally result from:
- To twist or roll the ankle: Often during sports or walking on unequal surfaces.
- Fall: Awkwardly landing can force the ankle in a unnatural position.
- Sudden impact: Direct ankle blows can stretch or tear the ligaments.
These incidents can exaggerate or tear the ligaments, leading to a sprain.
What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?
Common symptoms include:
- Pain: Especially when you gain weight on the affected foot.
- Swelling: Due to inflammation.
- Bruising: Discoloration around the ankle.
- Range of limited movements: Difficulty moving the ankle.
- Instability: Feeling of the ankle that gives way.
How is an ankle sprain diagnosed?
The diagnosis implies:
- Physical examination: Evaluation of swelling, tenderness and amplitude of movements.
- Imaging tests: X -rays to exclude fractures; MRI or ultrasound for a detailed assessment of ligaments.
Gravity of notation of the ankle sprains
Ankle sprains are generally classified into three grades depending on the extent of ligament damage. It is essential to understand the severity of the sprain to determine the appropriate treatment plan and the expected recovery time.
Grade I sprain (light)
- Ligament condition: Exaggerated without tearing.
- Joint instability: Little or not.
- Pain and swelling: Benign.
- Impact of mobility: Minor difficulty to walk.
- Treatment: Conservative care such as rest, ice, compression and elevation (rice); generally no long -term complications.
Grade II sprain (moderate)
- Ligament condition: Partial tear of ligament fibers.
- Joint instability: Light to moderate.
- Pain and swelling: Moderate to severe.
- Impact of mobility: Some difficulties in walking; Light bruises are often present.
- Treatment: May require a splint or a splint; Physiotherapy is often recommended for recovery and to prevent reintegration.
Grade III sprain (severe)
- Ligament condition: Complete ligament rupture.
- Joint instability: Significant.
- Pain and swelling: Severe.
- Impact of mobility: Marked difficulty or inability to walk due to intense pain.
- Treatment: Requires medical evaluation; Immobilization, physiotherapy and, in some cases, surgery may be necessary.
THE Grade / severity of an ankle sprain plays an essential role in training the processing approach. Although light cases can often be managed at home, more serious sprains require medical care of a doctor and / or support for rehabilitation of an approved physiotherapist.
What is good for an ankle sprain?
Initial care includes RICE method:
- Rest: Avoid activities that cause pain.
- Ice: Apply ice packs for 15 to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours.
- Compression: Use elastic bandages to reduce swelling.
- Elevation: Keep the ankle high above the heart level.
Over -the -counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.
What are the risk factors for an ankle sprain?
Risk factors include:
- Previous ankle injuries: Increases sensitivity to future sprains.
- Sports participation: Especially in sports requiring a jump or fast directional changes.
- Unequal surfaces: Walking or running on an irregular ground.
- Inadequate shoes: Bearing shoes that do not provide appropriate support.
Questions frequently asked about the ankle sprain
Q: How long does it take to recover from a sprained ankle?
A: The recovery time varies. Light sprains can cure in a few days, while serious sprains can take several weeks to months.
Q: When should I see a doctor?
A: If you feel intense pain, cannot bear weight or notice a significant swelling or deformation, see a health care provider.
Q: Can I prevent ankle sprains?
A: Yes. Strengthening exercises, appropriate shoes and caution on unequal surfaces can help prevent sprains.
References
Published by
Kelvin Johnson
With a career extending over a decade, Kelvin holds certifications as a trainer and conditioning and physiologist of the exercise. Its mission is simple but powerful: to provide effective training to people wishing to do the work.
