How is an Ankle Sprain Diagnosed?
Often an X-ray is done on patients suffering sprains, to exclude the possibility of a fracture.
What are the Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain?
Ankle Sprain Symptoms include:
- Bruising, pain and swelling are typical, but it may still be possible to put a certain amount of weight on your foot
- A feeling that your ankle is ‘catching’ or locking
- Lack of stability in your ankle causing the ankle to give way frequently
How is an Ankle Sprain Treated?
An ankle sprain won’t normally need an operation.
Anti-inflammatory painkillers may be recommended, together with some non-strenuous physiotherapy to help strengthen the joint and prevent stiffness.
Surgery: should your ankle remain painful or not restabilise after two or three months, your specialist may perform an arthroscopy (keyhole surgery) for a detailed assessment and repair of the joint; alternatively he may decide ankle ligament reconstruction surgery (lateral ankle sprain surgery) is necessary to restore the torn ligament. A personal rehabilitation programme with a physiotherapist will then be put in place to restore strength, range of movement and balance.
What Causes an Ankle Sprain?
The normal cause of a lateral ankle sprain is an ‘inversion injury’ in which the footās sole is abruptly forced inwards. Untreated, a serious sprain resulting in a complete tear may lead to long-term instability and weakness, leaving the ankle liable to collapse and for injury to recur. With serious sprains, tiny pieces of bone may also shear away at the point where the ligament attaches. Exercising on bumpy surfaces, falling, or twisting the foot while participating in sport are other causes of sprains.
ConsultĀ our orthopaedic specialists to rule out any additionalĀ injuriesĀ with theĀ sprained ankleĀ now!
