Ankle sprains are the most common lower-body injury
It usually occurs when the foot twists or turns beyond its normal range of movement
This can cause the ligaments of the ankle to overstretch or tear
Ligaments are the connective tissue that attach from one bone to the other at either side of the ankle
Risk factors
Internal Risk Factors
External Risk Factors
Age
Playing Surface
Increased BMI
Footwear
Previous Ankle Sprain
Level of Activity/Competition
Impairment in Postural Balance
Position of Player in Sport
Psychological Factors
Muscle Weakness
Foot Mechanics
Common Symptoms of ankle sprain
Pain
Swelling
Bruising
Throbbing
Stiffness
Instability
Weakness
Unable to fully weight bear
Diagnosis
Grade I:
Ligaments may be overstretched
Mild swelling
Localised tenderness
Healing time: 2-4 weeks
Grade II:
Ligaments are overstretched or partially torn
Moderate swelling, pain and impact on function
Reduced range of motion and stability
Healing time: 1-2 months
Grade III:
Complete rupture of ligament
Significant swelling around the ankle, foot and lower leg
High tenderness, loss of function and marked instability
Healing time: 3-6 months
Treatment of ankle sprain
Protect:
Reduce load for 1-3 days (this reduces bleeding and prevents further aggravation of the injury)
Minimise rest (prolonged rest compromises tissue strength and quality)
Optimal Loading: Yes we need to protect the injured areas by not over-stressing the tissues, but still applying healthy loads to the tissues will help stimulate the healing process
Let pain guide removal of protection and gradual reloading
Elevate:
Elevate the injured limb higher than the heart
Avoid Anti-inflammatories:
This medication may negatively affect long-term tissue healing
Optimal soft-tissue healing is heavily supported by the different phases of the body’s natural inflammatory process
Compress:
Swelling may be controlled by external mechanical compression such as taping or bandages
However, this should still allow for full range of movement at the joint
Mobilise:
Early Mobilisation is Key
Gently mobilise your ankle within a comfortable range as soon as possible
Walk on the affected foot as soon as you are able without making the pain or swelling worse
Normalise your walking as soon as you are able, to avoid compensation
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