Ankle sprain is a common injury in trauma practice, especially among athletes and active people. Although it is often considered a minor injury, proper management is essential to prevent long-term complications and ensure a full recovery. In this blog we will explore the mechanism of injury through to the rehabilitation phase with sports rehabilitation.
Mechanism of Injury
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn due to excessive force or sudden movement. The most common mechanism is forced twisting of the foot, leading to excessive twisting of the joint. This can occur when landing incorrectly after a jump, changing direction quickly during sporting activity or even in everyday situations such as tripping on an uneven surface.
Degrees of Sprain
Ankle sprains are classified into three grades, depending on the severity of the ligament injury:
- Grade I: In this grade, the ligaments are stretched, but not torn. Symptoms include mild pain, swelling and minimal limitation in range of motion.
- Grade II: Here, the ligaments are partially torn. Symptoms are more intense, with swelling, moderate pain and possibly difficulty walking.
- Grade III: In the most severe grade, the ligaments are completely torn. There is significant swelling, severe pain and the inability to bear weight on the affected ankle.
Conservative Treatment
Most ankle sprains, especially Grade I and II sprains, can be treated conservatively. This involves:
- Rest: Give the ankle time to heal and avoid activities that make the injury worse.
- Ice: Apply ice at intervals to reduce swelling and pain.
- Compression: Use bandages or splints to provide support and control swelling.
- Elevation: Keep the ankle elevated to reduce swelling.
Surgical Treatment
Grade III sprains may require surgery if the tear is severe and the ligaments cannot heal on their own. During surgery, the ligaments may be repaired or reconstructed using the patient's own or donor tissue.
Rehabilitation with Sports Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is crucial for a full recovery and to prevent recurrences. The sports rehabilitation phase is especially important for athletes and active people. The key steps in this phase are:
- Acute Phase: Focuses on reducing pain and inflammation, often with physical therapy, gentle movement and range-of-motion exercises.
- Subacute phase: As pain subsides, strengthening and balance exercises are incorporated to stabilise the ankle. Manual therapy and specific exercises help restore normal function.
- Readaptation phase: In this stage, patient-specific sporting activities are simulated. Movements, changes of direction and functional exercises are worked on to ensure that the ankle is able to handle the demands of the sporting activity.
- Return to Activity: Once strength, stability and function goals are achieved, a gradual return to sporting activity is allowed, under the supervision of a health professional.
In conclusion, ankle sprains can be a frustrating obstacle, but with the right approach to conservative treatment, surgery if necessary, and full rehabilitation with sports rehabilitation, patients can make a full recovery and return to enjoying their favourite activities with confidence and safety. It is always advisable to seek the guidance of a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.