What are Ankle Sprains and Strains?
Ankle sprains and strains are common injuries affecting individuals of all age groups. A sprain occurs when ligaments are stretched or torn, while a strain involves the stretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon.
Ankle sprains are most frequently observed.
Causes of Ankle Sprains or Strains
The primary causes of sprains or strains are impacts or falls that impact the ankle. Additional reasons for ankle strains or sprains include:
- Abrupt and awkward lateral movements—these occur when your foot is firmly planted on the ground, causing your ankle to twist outward while your foot turns inward, leading to an ankle strain or sprain.
- Participating in sports or activities involving rapid changes in foot position or direction, such as soccer, running, football, and basketball.
- Wearing inadequate footwear can contribute to an ankle sprain.
Risk Factors for Ankle Sprains or Strains
Factors elevating the risk of ankle sprains or strains include:
- Engaging in sports or exercise without proper warm-ups increases the risk due to tightened muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
- Excess weight or obesity places individuals at a heightened risk due to added stress on the ankle while walking, running, or engaging in sports.
- Muscle fatigue also raises the risk—long-distance runners like marathoners or ultramarathoners face a higher risk due to continuous joint stress.
Symptoms of Ankle Sprains or Strains
Indications of a sprained or strained ankle encompass:
- Ankle discomfort
- Swelling around the ankle joint
- Ankle stiffness
- Skin discolouration or bruising near the injury site
- Tenderness upon touch
- Inability to bear weight on the foot or ankle
Diagnosing Ankle Sprains or Strains
Frequently, ankle sprains are diagnosed through a physical examination by a primary care physician or orthopedic specialist. X-rays or MRI scans might be ordered by the physician to eliminate the possibility of severe injuries like fractures, dislocations, or bone fragments.
Treatment for Ankle Sprains or Strains
In cases of suspected ankle strain or sprain, the recommended actions are elevation, icing, and resting the affected area. Many instances of sprains or strains do not necessitate medical intervention.
If severe pain persists for more than three days, consulting a physician is advisable. Surgery becomes necessary for addressing more severe sprains or strains that involve torn ligaments, muscles, or tendons.
We provide the following treatments for ankle sprains and strains:
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
- Recovery from Ankle Sprains or Strains
While most mild ankle sprains and strains recover within a few weeks, severe cases may require a few months. Adhering to the guidelines of your orthopedic physician regarding the resumption of daily activities is essential.
In cases of severe sprains or strains, rehabilitation might involve physical therapy or exercises to enhance strength and recovery.