An ankle sprain is a common injury that occurs when the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn due to sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. Ligaments are strong, fibrous bands that connect bones and help stabilize joints. Ankle sprains can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of ligament damage.

Causes:

Inversion Injury: The most common cause of an ankle sprain is when the foot turns inward, causing the outer (lateral) ligaments to stretch or tear. This often happens during activities like walking on uneven surfaces, playing sports, or wearing inappropriate footwear.

Eversion Injury: An ankle sprain less commonly occurs when the foot turns outward, injuring the inner (medial) ligaments.

High-Impact Trauma: In some cases, severe ankle sprains can result from high-impact trauma, such as car accidents or falls from significant heights.

Symptoms:

Pain: Ankle sprains typically cause immediate pain at the site of injury, which can vary in intensity depending on the severity of the sprain.

Swelling: Swelling around the ankle is common and can occur within minutes of the injury.

Bruising: Bruising may develop over time and is often more noticeable a day or two after the injury.

Limited Range of Motion: The injured ankle may have reduced flexibility and mobility.

Instability: Some people experience a feeling of instability or weakness in the ankle, making it challenging to bear weight on the affected foot.

Grades of Ankle Sprains:

Ankle sprains are categorized into three grades based on their severity:

Grade I (Mild): Involves stretching and minimal tearing of ligaments. Mild pain, swelling, and minimal loss of function are typical.

Grade II (Moderate): Involves partial tearing of ligaments. More significant pain, swelling, bruising, and some loss of function occur.

Grade III (Severe): Involves complete tearing or rupture of ligaments. Severe pain, significant swelling, extensive bruising, and a marked loss of function are common.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis is often based on a physical examination, including a careful assessment of the injured ankle's appearance, range of motion, and stability. In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans may be ordered to rule out fractures or assess ligament damage more accurately.

Treatment Options:

R.I.C.E. Protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation are initial steps to manage ankle sprains, reducing pain and swelling.

Immobilization: Depending on the severity of the sprain, a brace, splint, or walking boot may be recommended to stabilize the ankle.

Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation exercises help improve strength, flexibility, and stability in the ankle, aiding in a full recovery.

Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories may be used to manage pain and swelling.

Surgery: Severe ankle sprains with significant ligament damage may require surgical repair, which is relatively rare.

Recovery:

Recovery time varies depending on the grade of the sprain and the individual's response to treatment. Mild sprains may recover in a few weeks, while severe sprains can take several months. It's crucial to follow Dr. Fahad's guidance and engage in rehabilitation to prevent chronic instability and recurring sprains.

Ankle sprains are common injuries, and prompt and appropriate treatment can help minimize pain, swelling, and long-term complications, allowing individuals to return to normal activities.

All ankle sprains recover through three phases:

• Phase 1 – 1-2 Week – Resting, protecting the ankle, and reducing swelling.
• Phase 2 – 3 to 2 Weeks – Restoring range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
• Phase 3 – Weeks to Months – Gradually returning to activities that do not require turning or twisting the ankle and doing maintenance exercises. They were later followed by activities that required sharp, sudden turns (cutting activities) such as tennis, basketball, or football.