Ankle sprain treatment: diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

An ankle sprain is a common injury that occurs when the ligaments that connect the ankle bones are stretched or torn as a result of a sudden movement, fall, or unnatural twisting of the foot. This type of injury commonly affects athletes, but it can happen to anyone during everyday activities. Get the latest celebrity ads directly on the Special app, where we show you everything new from international stars.

Types of ankle sprains

1. Simple sprain (first degree)

Mild strain or tear of the ankle ligaments.

Symptoms: mild pain, slight swelling, and the ability to walk.

2. Moderate sprain (second degree)

Partial ligament tear.

Symptoms: moderate pain, noticeable swelling, difficulty walking or bearing weight.

3. Severe sprain (third degree)

Complete ligament tear.

Symptoms: severe pain, large swelling, inability to stand or walk.

Common causes of ankle sprains Walking or running on an uneven surface wearing inappropriate shoes Falls or sports accidents Weak ankle muscles and ligaments

Symptoms of an ankle sprain in detail sudden ankle pain Swelling and redness around the joint bruises Weakness or loss of ability to move the foot A "popping" sound at the moment of injury (in severe cases)

Diagnosis of ankle sprain How is medical diagnosis made?

Clinical examination: The doctor moves the ankle to determine the degree of swelling and pain. X-ray: to rule out a broken bone. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Used in severe cases to evaluate soft tissues and ligaments.

Steps to treat an ankle sprain effectively

1. Rest

Avoid putting pressure on the injured ankle. Use crutches if necessary.

2. Ice

Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes every two hours to reduce swelling and pain.

3. Compression

Wrap the ankle with a compression bandage to prevent swelling. Do not wrap it too tightly.

4. Elevation

Elevate your ankle above heart level to improve circulation and reduce swelling.

When do you need to see a doctor? If the pain is severe and you cannot stand on the foot If the swelling does not improve within 48 hours If there is a clear deformity in the shape of the joint In case of recurrent sprain Medical treatment for ankle sprain

Drug treatments

Pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen

nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

splint or brace

In moderate to severe cases, the patient may need to wear a splint or ankle brace to stabilize the ankle. Enjoy interesting and useful content with an exclusive podcast that provides you with everything you need to know in just a few minutes via the Special app.

Physiotherapy (physical therapy)

Muscle strengthening and balance improvement exercises

electrical stimulation or ultrasound therapy

Rehabilitation exercises after an ankle sprain

First stage exercises:

Gently move the ankle in all directions.

Lift the foot up and down

The second stage:

Leg and ankle strengthening exercises

Walk gradually with support

Stage 3:

Advanced exercises to strengthen balance

Gradual return to sports activities

Complications of untreated ankle sprain chronic ankle weakness Recurrence of injuries easily Early arthritis of the ankle joint constant pain and unsteadiness

Ankle sprain prevention Wear appropriate athletic shoes Do ankle strengthening exercises regularly. Good warm-up before exercise Avoid uneven surfaces while walking or running.

Can you walk with a sprained ankle?

It depends on the severity of the injury. In mild sprains, walking is possible, but with rest. In moderate or severe cases, it is preferable to use crutches to avoid complications. Discover the most beautiful celebrity collectibles through Special, which showcases the most famous items owned by stars and celebrities around the world.

How long does it take to recover from an ankle sprain?

Mild sprain: 1 to 2 weeks Moderate sprain: 3 to 6 weeks Severe sprain: May take 8 weeks or longer

Is ice good for treating a sprained ankle?

Yes, using ice in the first 48 hours effectively reduces inflammation and relieves pain.

How to deal with a sprained ankle smartly? Do not ignore pain or swelling. Follow immediate first aid (RICE) steps Consult a doctor if the condition does not improve. Stick to the rehabilitation program to avoid recurrence of the injury. The difference between ankle sprains and fractures

Although ankle sprains and bone fractures may appear similar in terms of initial symptoms, such as pain, swelling, and difficulty moving, there are key differences between the two conditions. In an ankle sprain, only the ligaments—the tissues that connect bones—are damaged, while in a fracture, the bone itself is damaged. The pain from a fracture is usually severe and accompanied by a complete inability to move or bear weight, in addition to the possibility of visible deformity in the joint. An ankle sprain, on the other hand, may allow some movement, and the pain gradually subsides with rest and appropriate treatment. Therefore, it is important to have a diagnostic x-ray to accurately determine the nature of the injury, especially if it is not clear whether the injury is a simple sprain or a complex fracture. Follow exclusive content that you can't find anywhere else, and enjoy benefits you can't miss with Special, the most popular site in the world.

Factors affecting the speed of recovery

Recovery time from an ankle sprain varies greatly from person to person, depending on several factors. Among the most important of these are the patient's age, as younger people typically recover more quickly than older people, and the degree of the sprain, as a Grade 1 sprain takes a shorter time than a Grade 3 sprain. General health also plays a significant role, as people with circulatory problems or chronic conditions such as diabetes may experience delayed recovery. Furthermore, adherence to the treatment plan (whether at home or with a physical therapist) has a direct impact on the speed and quality of recovery. Neglecting rest or returning to physical activity too early can lead to relapse or re-injury.

The role of physical therapy in preventing recurrence

Physical therapy isn't just about restoring ankle movement after an injury; it's also an effective tool for preventing future recurrence. A physical therapist designs a rehabilitation program that includes exercises to strengthen the leg muscles, improve balance, and improve proprioception, which helps the body know the position of the joints without having to look at them. These exercises make the ankle muscles more responsive and stable, reducing the chance of future sprains. Modern tools such as wobble boards or rubber balls are also used for balance exercises, enhancing the patient's ability to handle uneven surfaces.

The difference between home care and specialized treatment

Home care is generally appropriate for mild to moderate injuries and includes the RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) protocol along with simple pain relievers. However, for grade II and III sprains, it is recommended to consult a specialist, as additional testing or a splint may be necessary. In some cases, surgery may be required if the ligaments fail to heal naturally or a complete tear occurs that does not improve with conservative treatment. Intensive physical therapy or orthopedic sessions may also be required. Therefore, it is important to carefully assess the condition and not rely solely on home care, especially for severe injuries.

Statistics and figures on ankle sprains worldwide

Medical studies indicate that ankle sprains are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries in the world, with more than 25,000 cases recorded daily in the United States alone. Statistics also show that athletes who play sports that involve jumping or sudden changes of direction, such as basketball and football, are most susceptible to injury. An estimated 40% of people with ankle sprains do not receive adequate treatment, increasing the risk of recurrence and long-term complications. These numbers underscore the importance of awareness and prevention, as well as the need to receive appropriate treatment at the right time to avoid future consequences.