A sprained ankle is one that has a tear or stretch in one or several ligaments in the ankle. These ligaments are elastic tissue bands that keep the bones of the ankle in place. Your ankles are especially vulnerable to sprains because of their tiny size and the pressure applied to them when walking, hopping, jumping, and running, particularly on uneven surfaces.

Depending on the injury’s severity, the ankle sprain could be classified as Grade I, II, or III, and treatments for these differ. This is why proper diagnosis by your podiatrist, Dr. George Tjamaloukas or Dr. Kathy Tjamaloukas of Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Center, in Land O’ Lakes, FL, is vital.

Causes and Symptoms of Ankle Sprains

In the U.S., most ankle injuries are sprains and the majority of them occur when the ankle is suddenly twisted. In general, the most common cause is when the ankle joint’s outside ligaments get strained due to the foot rolling onto the ankle’s outside portion. This is known as an inversion injury. A less common cause is an eversion injury, in which the ankle’s inner ligaments get stretched due to the ankle rolling into the joint’s inside portion. Symptoms typically include:

• Discoloration or bruising in the affected ankle
• Pain, swelling, and tenderness
• Difficulty moving and bending the ankle
• Difficulty putting your full weight on the injured ankle

Ankle Sprain Treatment Options

The first line of treatment for ankle sprains includes the “RICE” protocol:

• R for Resting the sprained ankle.
• I for Icing the affected ankle for about 20 minutes or so every three to four hours to keep swelling down.
• C for Compressing the affected ankle to immobilize it.
• E for Elevating it simply by propping your leg up while at rest.

For a more severe ankle sprain, however, your podiatrist in Land O’ Lakes, FL, might recommend that you wear a brace or use crutches for extra stability and protection. You may also be prescribed NSAIDs or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs if you have significant swelling and pain. Additionally, Grade III ankle sprains, which typically have complete ligament tears might need surgical intervention to repair the torn ankle ligaments.

You will also need to do rehabilitative exercises for restoring your injured ankle’s range of motion and strength. These exercises will likewise help prevent ankle injuries in the future.

Speak to Us If You Have Concerns About Your Ankle Sprain

Call 813-909-0865 to set an appointment here at Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Center, PA in Land O’ Lakes, FL, with your podiatrist Dr. George Tjamaloukas or Dr. Kathy Tjamaloukas.