What Is a Sprained Ankle?
A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear due to sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. Ligaments connect bones and provide stability to the ankle joint. A sprain can range from mild stretching to complete tearing of these ligaments.
Sprained ankles are common injuries, often caused by sports, walking on uneven surfaces, or accidental falls. Although painful, most sprains heal well with proper care.
What Are the Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle?
Symptoms can vary based on the severity of the sprain but generally include:
- Pain around the ankle joint
- Swelling and bruising
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight
- Tenderness when touching the affected area
- Limited range of motion
Severe sprains may also cause a popping sound at the time of injury and significant instability in the ankle.
What Causes a Sprained Ankle?
A sprained ankle usually happens when the foot twists inward or outward suddenly, stretching or tearing the ligaments. Common causes include:
- Walking or running on uneven surfaces
- Sports activities involving jumping, running, or quick direction changes
- Rolling the ankle during a fall or misstep
- Wearing inappropriate footwear that does not support the ankle
How Is a Sprained Ankle Diagnosed?
A healthcare provider will assess your ankle through:
- Physical examination checking for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion
- Questions about how the injury happened and symptoms
- Imaging tests if needed to rule out fractures, such as:
- X-rays
- MRI or ultrasound for severe or complex sprains
How Is a Sprained Ankle Treated?
Most mild to moderate sprained ankles heal with conservative treatment, including:
- Rest: Avoid putting weight on the ankle
- Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain
- Compression: Use an elastic bandage to support the ankle
- Elevation: Keep the ankle raised above heart level to minimize swelling
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
Physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and flexibility. Severe sprains might require a brace, cast, or even surgery in rare cases.
Complications of Sprained Ankle
Without proper care, a sprained ankle can lead to:
- Chronic ankle instability
- Persistent pain and swelling
- Increased risk of repeated sprains
- Damage to surrounding structures such as tendons
How to Prevent a Sprained Ankle
You can reduce your risk by:
- Wearing supportive footwear, especially during sports
- Strengthening ankle muscles with regular exercises
- Avoiding uneven surfaces when possible
- Warming up properly before physical activity