Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. This article will discuss everything you need to know about ankle sprains, from what they are and how they occur to their diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys an active lifestyle, knowing how ankle sprains heal can help you get back on your feet faster. If you’re seeking expert care for ankle sprains or other orthopedic concerns, consider scheduling an appointment with Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, conveniently located in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio.
An ankle sprain happens when you twist or turn your ankle in a way that stretches or tears the tough bands of tissue (ligaments) that hold your ankle joint together. This is what we call a “sprained ankle.”
Your ankle joint is made up of bones and held together by strong bands called ligaments. When you sprain your ankle, it means you’ve stretched or torn one or more of these ankle ligaments.
Ankle sprains are common and can happen to anyone, whether you’re playing sports or just walking on an uneven surface.
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments in your ankle get stretched or torn. Ligaments are like strong rubber bands that hold your ankle bones together. Ankle sprains usually happen when your foot turns inward, causing the ankle to roll outward.
Common causes of ankle sprains include:
Ankle sprains can vary in severity, and they’re classified into three main types: mild, moderate, and severe ankle sprains.
In addition to these classifications, there are two special types of ankle sprains:
It’s important to see a doctor if you think you’ve sprained your ankle, especially if it’s a severe sprain or if you’ve had multiple sprains in the past.
Signs and symptoms of an ankle sprain can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but here are some common ones to look out for:
To diagnose an ankle sprain, a healthcare provider will typically start by asking about how the injury occurred and your symptoms. They will then perform a physical examination of the injured ankle, checking for tenderness, swelling, and bruising.
In some cases, your doctor may recommend imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to rule out fractures or assess the severity of the sprain, especially for chronic or severe sprains.
The combination of your history, physical examination findings, and any imaging results will help your doctor diagnose ankle sprains and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Treating an ankle sprain usually involves a combination of self-care measures and professional medical intervention. Here’s what you can expect:
By following these treatment steps and allowing adequate time for healing, most people can recover from an ankle sprain and return to their normal activities.
Whether you’re an athlete or someone who enjoys an active lifestyle, don’t let ankle sprains hold you back. If you’re experiencing persistent pain or instability in your ankle, schedule an appointment with Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine.
With multiple locations in Ohio, including Granville and Coshocton, our team of orthopedic specialists can provide expert care and personalized treatment plans to help you recover from ankle sprains and get back to doing what you love. Contact us today!
Medically reviewed by Alex Tancevski, M.D.
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