Sprained Ankles

We Can Help You Manage the Pain

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched beyond their natural limits, often resulting in a tear in the tissue. Sprained ankles are relatively common injuries that can happen to anyone at any age. A sprain can range from mild to severe, depending on the degree of damage that occurs to the ligament. The majority of sprained ankles fall into the mild category and will respond well to simple treatments like rest and applying ice packs. However, more severe sprains require proper medical treatment and subsequent rehabilitation.

Severe sprains can weaken the ankle, making it more prone to further injuries. Repeated ankle sprains can often lead to chronic pain and instability, and can be a contributing factor in the development of arthritis in the ankle or foot.

Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle

The most common characteristics and symptoms of a sprained ankle include:

• Pain resulting from a foot twisting, rolling, or turning beyond its normal motions
• Patient may hear a “pop” when the foot twists or turns
• Tenderness and swelling
• Bruising
• Decreased range of motion
• Instability or inability to stand on the affected foot

Causes of a Sprained Ankle

Ligaments are strong bands of fibrous tissue that connect bone to bone. In the ankle, the ligaments keep the bones in their proper positions and serve to stabilize the joint. The majority of sprained ankles occur in the lateral ligaments on the outside of the ankle. This can happen when the ankle rolls outward as the foot turns inward. Though less common, a sprain can also occur in the medial ligaments of the inside of the ankle. This is the result of the ankle rolling inward as the foot turns outward.

The most common causes of ankle sprains include:

• Tripping or falling down
• Walking, running, or exercising on an uneven surface
• Participation in sports that require rapid changes in directions, or the twisting and rolling of the foot. These include, but are not limited to, soccer, football, basketball, tennis, and trail running.

We also provide treatment for other types of sprains if you have injured another part of your body. Schedule your appointment today by calling (630) 584-1400.