ANKLE SPRAIN

This common injury usually involves twisting or rolling of the ankle inwards into inversion spraining the lateral ligaments of the ankle.  Less commonly the ankle can be rolled outwards injuring the medial ligament.  Occasionally the sprain can involve the inferior tibio-fibular joint. 

When the ankle is inverted several bands of the lateral ligaments are stretched tight.  When these are loaded past their maximum tolerance the ligament can suffer a partial or full tear.  Minor sprains will only stretch the ligament where more significant sprains may partially tear the ligament leaving the ankle unstable.

Symptoms

Swelling and bruising of the foot and ankle from torn ligament and blood vessels.

Pain on moving the foot, particularly twisting inwards.

Loss of balance and strength of the lower leg.

Laxity of the ankle joint due to the ligaments being stretched or stiffness of the joint secondary to scarring or fluid oedema.

Diagnosis

Ankle sprains and the degree of damage to the ligaments are diagnosed clinically with tests to assess the range of motion and stability of the ankle.  These are performed by your Physiotherapist in the initial assessment and provide information on which ligaments are involved and what degree of damage has been sustained.

Occasionally an x-ray will be required but this is not usual.

Treatment

Initial treatment should be started immediately after the injury and follow the RICE regime – see RICE page.

Early controlled motion is the key to good results.  Occasionally this may involve some form of splinting or casting but does not usually require a cast.

Physiotherapy utilises several techniques to aid in decreasing swelling and inflammation, the restoration of joint stability, motion, strength and balance. 

These include:    acupuncture

                              electrotherapy

      manual therapy

      strength retraining

      proprioception (balance) retraining

      range of motion exercises

You will also have a home bases rehab program designed for you covering strength, motion and proprioception.

Return to activity guidelines will be set for you to guide your return to activity.