An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments that support the ankle. Ligaments are tough bands of connective tissue that hold the bones in place. A sudden twist can stretch these ligaments too far, causing them to overstretch or tear. Sprains range from mild to severe, and the right approach to healing depends on how much damage the ligaments have suffered.
Types of Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains can be sorted into three grades based on how much the ligaments are affected:
- A Grade I sprain is the mildest type. The ligaments have been stretched too far but have not torn. The ankle stays relatively stable in this case.
- A Grade II sprain is more serious. The ligaments have partially torn. This often causes more swelling and a greater loss of stability than a Grade I sprain.
- A Grade III sprain is the most severe. One or more ligaments have torn completely. This level of injury can leave the ankle unable to support normal movement.
Symptoms
Symptoms tend to match the severity of the sprain. The more severe the injury, the more noticeable the symptoms usually become.
Common signs of a sprained ankle include:
- Swelling around the joint
- Bruising
- A popping sound at the moment of injury
- Instability in the ankle
- Pain that ranges from mild to severe
- Difficulty moving the ankle
A medical provider may use X-rays to view the tissues and bones. In some cases, an MRI is used to get a clearer picture of how severe the sprain is.
Treatment
Many kinds of ankle sprain can heal on their own with proper care. Treatment focuses on reducing swelling, supporting the joint, and restoring strength over time.
Rest is the starting point for all sprains. Icing the ankle can help limit swelling during the early stages of healing, and compression bandages add support and further reduce swelling. Elevating the ankle also helps keep swelling down. Doctors often suggest using a brace or an air cast to support the joint while it recovers. Pain relievers can help during the initial healing period.
Once the ankle can handle movement, doctors often recommend stretching and strengthening exercises to help rebuild stability and lower the chance of injuring the ankle again. Severe sprains could require surgery to remove fragments of torn ligament, bone, or cartilage; to repair a torn ligament; or to reconstruct it using biologic material.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek a medical evaluation if your symptoms are severe. Severe pain, heavy swelling, or extensive bruising are signs that the injury may need professional attention.
Pay close attention to how the ankle feels when you try to use it. If your ankle feels unstable or cannot bear weight, that instability may point to a partial or complete ligament tear. A provider can determine the grade of the sprain and recommend the right treatment.
You should also see a doctor if you are concerned about the extent of the injury. A popping sound at the time of injury, or pain that does not improve with rest, icing, compression, and elevation, are reasons to have the ankle examined. Imaging such as an X-ray or MRI can confirm how much damage has occurred.
