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What is it?
Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments connecting the bones in the foot, ankle and lower leg are stretched or torn.
What causes it?
Ankle sprains are generally caused by a sudden twist or shifting movement when the foot is planted. The most common type of ankle injury is an inversion sprain. This occurs when the ankle rolls outward and the sole of the foot turns inward. Although less common, eversion sprains generally occur when the foot everts, or when the sole of the foot turns outward and the ankle rolls inward.
Ankle sprains are usually graded according to the ligaments involved.
Grade I – Usually consists of a mild overstretching of the supporting ligaments.
Grade II - May involve overstretching of some of the supporting ligaments and a partial or complete tear of others.
Grade III – Usually involves a complete tear of most of the supporting ligaments. May also involve a fracture.
What does treatment involve? (may include 1 or all of the following)
- RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
- Anti-inflammatories as prescribed by a physician
- Physiotherapy to help strengthen the ankle
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Please consult your physician for a complete diagnosis of your injury.
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