Ankle Sprains

What is the cause of an ankle sprain?

It is an inversion sprain of the ankle. Inversion refers to an excessive "turning in" motion whereby the arch twists upward, and the tissues on the outer side of the ankle are overstretched and injured. The resulting damage can range from a slight strain of the ankle ligaments up to a partial or complete ligament rupture. In severe cases, the lower end of the outer leg bone (the fibula) may be fractured as well.

Mild inversion injuries of the ankle typically result in a small amount of swelling with a localised area of bruising. In this case, one of the outer ankle ligaments is probably strained, which means it is stretched without any tearing of the fibres. There is usually extensive bruising, swelling, and pain in more severe injuries. This suggests that one or more of the three main outer ankle ligaments has been sprained (with actual tearing of some of the fibres). If severe pain extends above the ankle area, the possibility of fibular fracture must be investigated by x-ray

What should I do if I keep going over on my ankle?

If you have a history of repeated ankle sprains, this may indicate some form of biomechanical and/or muscular abnormality. It would help if you came to Footfix for Podiatric assessment and treatment.

What shouldn't I do If I keep going over on my ankle?

If you have a chronic problem, you should not ignore the problem. You may be causing more damage to your ankle by walking around on it. Your issue may be resolved quickly and easily by your podiatrist at Footfix.

Could there be any long term effects of chronic ankle pain?

There can be long term effects from chronic ankle inversion injuries. The earlier treatment is sought, the less likely it will be that you will experience long term problems.

Podiatry treatment for chronic ankle pain?

The podiatrists at Footfix will perform a full assessment and, if appropriate, a complete gait analysis. You may also be advised on orthotic shoe inserts to correct and help resolve your pain.

Acute ankle sprains?

The immediate treatment consists of restricting your activity to rest the injured ankle. Next, apply cold (ice-pack, chemical "ice pack," frozen peas or a moist facecloth with ice cubes wrapped in it) directly to the outer side of the ankle for repeated 20-minute-on and 40-minute-off cycles. Third, compress the area with some form of an elasticated wrap or tubigrip®. Finally, elevate the involved ankle above the level of your heart. This will help to reduce the swelling and pain.

If a fracture (not displaced or breaking through the skin) of the fibula is diagnosed at the time of your injury, then your ankle (and lower leg) will need to be immobilised for a period of about six weeks. This can take the form of a plaster or fibreglass cast. Alternatively, we prefer using an AirCast® since this is typically more comfortable, conforms precisely to your leg and avoids the excessive skin scaling and dryness associated with other techniques. If the fracture is severely displaced and/or protruding through the skin, an orthopaedic surgeon will most likely need to repair it surgically, followed by immobilisation.

Ankle injury rehabilitation

Following the immobilisation of any joint, patients typically experience considerable stiffness in that joint. This can be managed using a variety of physical therapy modalities, including exercises, massage, ultrasound treatments and possibly a brief course of oral anti-inflammatory medication. Return to normal activities should be gradual; return to sporting activities should be even more gradual with the use of some form of ankle support in the early stages.

To have a consultation about your foot or ankle injury contact us today.