Ankle injuries are among the most common types of injuries sustained in sports. They attack athletes of both amateur and professional levels and of all ages. The ankles are prone to injury from the recreational to professional levels due to their vital role in locomotion and balance. Of the various types of ankle injuries, ankle sprains are by far and away the most common, representing the majority of injuries relative to sports. This blog will outline what causes ankle sprains to occur, how they are treated, and when it may be appropriate to visit with a specialist that performs orthopedic surgery.
What Causes Ankle Sprains?
An ankle sprain is an injury that affects one or more of the ligaments in the ankle, which are stretched beyond their limits or torn. This injury usually happens when running, jumping, or changing direction rapidly. It is common in contact sports like basketball, soccer, and tennis. Sprains of the ankle do occur when the foot rolls or twists inward. This can knock the ankle joint out of its position and can further cause damage to the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. The ligaments on the outside of the ankle provide stability to the ankle joint.
Some risk factors for ankle sprain include:
- Playing sports on uneven surfaces
- Wearing inappropriate shoes
- Weakened muscles around the ankle joint
- Previous ankle injuries
If you have previously sprained your ankle, the likelihood of recurrence is higher if the joint was not allowed to heal properly or was not strengthened after the injury.
Symptoms and Signs of an Ankle Sprain
The severity of an ankle sprain might be variable depending on the extent of the damage to the ligaments. Common symptoms include:
- Sharp or throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising around the ankle and foot
- Limited mobility
Milder cases of sprain may be treated with rest and conservative management; however, severe ones may even warrant a visit to the doctor or possibly surgery.
Ankle Sprain Treatment Options
Most ankle sprains can be effectively treated with non-surgical means. Initial management often follows the R.I.C.E. methodology, which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
The ankle may be treated with or without physical therapy to return it to its usual state of strength and mobility. Exercises during physical therapy are designed to increase flexibility, strengthen the muscles around the ankle, and reduce the risk of future sprains.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Ankle Injuries
If you have a severe sprain that is not getting better with conservative treatment or frequent sprains, it may be time to see a specialist. For more complicated ankle injuries, a doctor at the Richmond Orthopedic Institute can help. They are experienced in the treatment of foot and ankle conditions, including advanced ligament damage that requires surgical intervention.
Future Ankle Injury Prevention
Although ankle sprains are not completely avoidable, athletes can reduce their risk of injury by doing strengthening exercises to enhance ankle stability, wearing the proper footwear, and using ankle braces for extra support.
By taking precautionary measures and care following an injury, athletes can limit the occurrence of ankle sprains and continue being active in their respective sports.
Call Us to Discuss Treatment for Sports-Related Ankle Injuries in Richmond
You will get a personalized care plan if you consult a foot and ankle specialist. Whether it be rehabilitation, continuous physical therapy, or surgery that you may need, specialists in Richmond can help you get back to full recovery after common ankle injuries from sports. Reach out today and take the first step back into the game.