Ankle sprains are common injuries. They can occur from sporting injuries such as football, tennis, badminton, skiing, snowboarding or even after a missed step. The commonest type of injury is an inversion injury (where the ankle turns inwards). This usually sprain the ligament on the outside, called the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL). The opposite of an inversion injury an eversion injury where the ankle goes outwards. When this happens, the deltoid ligament which is on the outside of the ankle is sprained. A high ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments above the ankle are injured. This is called a high ankle sprain. A very bad ankle sprain can produce multiple injuries, both of the ligaments as well as of the bones around the ankle joint. A very bad ankle sprain can produce instability of the ankle joint.
Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain
- Pain
- Swelling
- Ankle feels “loose” or Recurrent Ankle Sprains
Diagnosis of an Ankle Sprain
The diagnosis of an ankle sprain can often be made from the history and physical examination in the clinic. Sometimes investigations such as X-rays or MRI may be done to exclude other injuries or to confirm the diagnosis.
Types of Treatment
- Physiotherapy
- Ankle Brace
- Anti-inflammatory Medications
- Keyhole, minimally Invasive Ligament Repair/Reconstruction
