Sprained Ankle Common Causes

A sprained ankle is a very common injury sustained when the ankle twists or rolls beyond its normal range of motion. The rope-like ligaments that hold the bones located in the ankle and foot together are rigid, yet slightly elastic. When these supports are stretched beyond their normal range, minor or major tears can occur. This stretching and tearing is what constitutes a sprain.

The sprain is measured in degrees of severity. A first-degree sprain causes little or no loss of function or stability. However, it may cause pain, swelling and joint stiffness. A second-degree ankle sprain causes moderate instability, pain, swelling and stiffness. With a phase three sprain, a ligament tears completely, leading to a total loss of motion and extreme pain.

Each degree is treated similarly with rest, strengthening and stretching exercises and immobilization. With the more serious injuries, in addition to the treatments just mentioned, surgery may be required to correct the damage.

The sprain will heal in phases. Phase one involves protection. The last thing you want to do is further damage the area. Protective measures will include not walking on or putting pressure on the ankle and getting the swelling down by using ice and possibly anti-inflammatory drugs.

Range of motion and stretching exercises are incorporated during phase two. Normally, this will take place after about a week has passed. Rushing into this phase could cause more damage.

Phase three calls for a return to regular activities. However, special care should be taken to ensure that the individual does not twist or turn the ankle again. Eventually, treatment will take the patient back to those activities, like tennis and basketball, that require sharp turns and quick movements. The goal is to strengthen and regain normal range of motion over time.

Your doctor may recommend that you stay off the sprained ankle and use the RICE method to help facilitate healing: Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.