An acute ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that hold the bones of the ankle together are damaged. When you twist or turn your ankle unnaturally, you typically injure it. As a consequence of this, ankle ligaments can be stretched or torn, and pain can occur. Ligaments stabilize joints by controlling movements within their range of motion. A sprain occurs when ligaments around the ankle are stretched beyond their borders, most commonly the ankle rolling inwards. A sprained ankle requires immediate attention. The first steps of taking care of the ankle can be crucial in dictating how well the limb heals and its future function.

Acute Ankle Sprain – Symptoms

Symptoms of an acute ankle sprain may include:

• • Inflammation and swelling

• • Bruising

• • Weakness, potential inability to bear weight

• • Instability

• • Pain

The injury can vary in severity and therefore vary in severity of symptoms!

Home Treatment – Management

POLICE

The Police Principle refers to treating musculoskeletal injuries using modern/modified techniques in first aid.

• • Protect: Prevent further damage to the ankle. Stop exercising or playing as this can likely further irritate the joint.

• • Optimal Load: Comfortable movement and activity on the ankle will help it maintain its function and range of motion. Exercises like ankle ABCs can be helpful with this and even control pain.

• • Ice: An ankle injury/swelling can be reduced by applying ice or cold therapy to the affected area.

• • Compression: When applied to the ankle, compression supports or bandages can help reduce swelling and provide support.

• • Elevation: Gravity can cause swelling in the feet, which can be reduced by elevating the limb.

Physiotherapy Treatment and Active Rehab:

Physiotherapists prescribe a treatment plan according to the severity of the ankle sprain to gradually allow the injured person to resume their routine activities

In order to maintain range of motion and function, mobility exercises will be helpful whilst allowing the joint to heal in the early days of treatment. Stay within pain-free zones until you gradually become more comfortable! Give this exercise a try:

Ankle alphabet:

• • When sitting in a chair, tracing the letters of the alphabet with your foot in a seated position. Continue this 2 or 3 times, moving your ankle in each direction.

Conclusion

Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries, occurring in various sports such as basketball, soccer, and American football but can also happen in day-to-day activities. Not taking the rehab process seriously can make this injury reoccurring, and therefore can cause further problems in the future, whether feeding into a compensatory strategy up the chain or making the ankle more vulnerable to everyday stressors. If you are someone that rolls that ankle often or notices weakness in the foot and ankle, don’t be afraid to reach out to any of our experienced therapists!