Understanding Sprained Ankles: Causes and Treatment

A Closer Look at Sprained Ankles

A sprained ankle occurs when the ankle sustains an unnatural movement, causing excessive stretching of the supporting ligaments. This common injury can affect individuals of all ages, not solely athletes. Depending on the direction of movement during the injury, a sprained ankle can be categorized as:

1. Inversion ankle sprain: Occurs when the ankle turns outward, with the foot moving beneath the body.

2. Eversion ankle sprain: Takes place when the ankle rolls inward, and the foot moves to the side of the body.

While mild sprains can often heal with proper care and rest, severe sprains typically require medical attention. The ankle specialists at City Orthopaedics are here to assist you in regaining full ankle functionality through a secure and expedited recovery plan.

Root Causes of Sprained Ankles

A sprained ankle can result from various movements that strain the ligaments in your ankle or leg. Some individuals may experience ankle instability, often due to a previous injury, which makes them more susceptible to sprains. Common causes of sprained ankles include participation in sports and activities such as:

• Running
• Soccer
• Gymnastics
• Football
• Baseball/softball
• Basketball

Symptoms of Sprained Ankles

If you are encountering any of the following symptoms associated with a sprained ankle, we recommend consulting an orthopedic specialist at City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine:

• Ankle pain
• Intense pain in the ankle following a twist or fall
• Ankle swelling
• Ankle redness or bruising
• A popping or crunching sound during the ankle injury
• Difficulty moving the ankle
• Difficulty and pain when bearing weight on the ankle

Diagnosing Sprained Ankles

At City Orthopaedics, our fellowship-trained orthopedic doctors can help determine if your ankle is sprained and assess the extent of the injury. During your evaluation, we will examine the affected ankle and inquire about the circumstances of the injury and your symptoms. In most cases, we will conduct an imaging test to ensure there is no significant damage to the ankle bones or surrounding tissues. Commonly used imaging tests include:

• MRI scans
• X-rays
• CT scans

Treatment for Sprained Ankles

Many sprained ankles can be effectively managed without surgery. Depending on the severity of your injury, we may recommend:

• Ice
• Rest
• Lifestyle modifications
• Casting or splinting
• Pain medications
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Elevation
• Physical therapy