What is an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain, twisted ankle, rolled ankle, ankle injury, or ankle ligament injury is a common medical condition where one or more of the ligaments of the ankle are torn or partially torn. The ligaments of the ankle hold the ankle bones and joints in position. They protect the ankle joint from abnormal movements-especially twisting, turning, and rolling of the foot. The anterior talofibular ligament is one of the most commonly involved ligaments. Sprains to the lateral aspect of the ankle account for 85% of ankle sprains. Sprains happen when the foot is rolled or turned beyond motions that are considered normal for the ankle. When an ankle is placed on an uneven surface or experiences a large force when landing, the ligaments can be stretched into an abnormal position.
Most sprains occur during shifting after the foot has been planted. In most cases, the ankle will roll out as the foot turns towards the inside of the body. Ligaments then stretch or tear depending on the amount of force that was placed on them. Some of the most common causes of ankle injuries are lack of condition, lack of warming up and stretching properly, previous history of an ankle sprain, inadequate shoes, and uneven ground.
Grade of Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are classified as grade 1, 2, and 3. Depending on the amount of damage or the number of ligaments that are damaged, each sprain is classified from mild to severe. The amount of force that is placed on the ankle helps classify which grade of sprain is suffered.
Grade 1: is a mild sprain or one that causes slight stretching with minimal damage to the fibers in the ligament.
Grade 2: is when there is some tearing of the ligament and the ankle joint moves in abnormal ways.
Grade 3: is one where there are complete tears of a ligament, and the presence of instability is experienced.
Sprains are stretched or torn ligaments that are injured when the ankle is twisted or rolled. Sprains are caused by trauma while strains are caused by overstretching or pulling the muscle or tendon.
High Ankle Sprain
A high ankle sprain, also known as a syndesmotic ankle sprain, is a sprain of the syndesmotic ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula to the lower leg. Syndesmotic ankle sprains are known as high because their location on the lower leg is above the ankle. High ankle sprains are caused when the lower leg and foot twist out.
Residual Ankle Instability
Occasionally, when the ligaments heal, they are weaker or looser than prior to the injury. This results in an ankle that is more likely to be unstable and twist more easily. Rehabilitation often allows the adjacent muscles to strengthen and stabilize the joint. Sometimes, it is necessary to wear a brace when walking on even ground or during sports to support the ankle. Rarely, it is necessary to surgically reconstruct the ligaments.
Summary
By learning more about the different kinds of ankle sprains, we can better understand how to prevent and treat symptoms associated with it. When ankle injuries are present, whatever is required depends on the area affected and the symptoms present, and that is why it is important to have a team of doctors that is able to identify the root cause.
At BBC Health in Lewisville, Texas, we know how to identify, treat, or refer in the proper direction for any problems with your ankles. As a primary care provider, we can quickly provide medical, chiropractic, and rehab treatments in order to get you well as fast as possible. If you’re suffering from ankle pain, don’t delay, and contact us immediately to see how we can help.
