Sprains

Acupuncture and Herbs Stop Ankle Pain an

What is a Sprain?

Ankle Sprain is a common injury that occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn, typically due to a sudden twist, turn, or roll of the foot. It most commonly affects the lateral ligaments on the outside of the ankle.

Grade I: Mild stretching and microscopic tearing of the ligaments with mild tenderness and swelling.

Grade II: Partial tearing of the ligaments, with moderate pain, swelling, bruising, and some instability.

Grade III: Complete tear of the ligament, causing severe pain, swelling, significant instability, and an inability to bear weight.

Mechanism of Injury:

Ankle sprains typically occur due to sudden twisting or turning movements, such as:

Inversion Injury: The most common cause, where the foot rolls inward, overstretching or tearing the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.
Stepping on Uneven Surfaces: Landing awkwardly from a jump or stepping on an uneven surface can cause the ankle to twist.
Sports Injuries: Common in sports that involve running, jumping, or sudden changes in direction, like basketball, soccer, or tennis.
Weak Muscles or Poor Balance: Weakness in the muscles around the ankle or poor proprioception can increase the risk of sprains.

Symptoms

Grade I Ankle Sprain (Mild)

Symptoms:
- Mild Pain: Slight pain, particularly when moving or putting weight on the ankle.
- Minimal Swelling: Light swelling around the ankle.
- Tenderness: Mild tenderness over the affected ligaments.
- No Significant Instability: The ankle remains stable, and walking is possible with minimal discomfort.

Grade II Ankle Sprain (Moderate)

Symptoms:
- Moderate Pain: Pain is more intense, particularly during movement or weight-bearing.
- Significant Swelling and Bruising: Noticeable swelling and bruising around the ankle.
- Tenderness: Moderate tenderness over the ligaments.
- Instability: Some instability of the ankle joint, making walking difficult without support.

Grade III Ankle Sprain (Severe)

Symptoms:
- Severe Pain: Intense pain, often preventing any movement of the ankle.
- Severe Swelling and Bruising: Significant swelling and bruising, often spreading beyond the ankle.
- Tenderness: Extreme tenderness over the entire ankle area.
- Marked Instability: The ankle joint is highly unstable, and weight-bearing is impossible without assistance.
- Possible Popping Sound: A popping sound or sensation may have been felt at the time of injury.

Treatment

Grade I

Rest: Limit activities that stress the ankle.
Compression: Use an elastic bandage to reduce swelling and provide support.
Elevation: Elevate the ankle above heart level to minimise swelling.
NSAIDs: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
Physical Therapy: Gentle range-of-motion exercises can begin as soon as pain allows, followed by strengthening exercises.
Return to Activity: Typically within a few days to a week, with gradual reintroduction to activity as tolerated.

Grade II

Rest: Avoid weight-bearing activities for a longer period, possibly using crutches.
Compression: A more supportive wrap or brace may be used to stabilise the ankle.
Elevation: Keep the ankle elevated as much as possible.
NSAIDs: Continue using pain relievers and anti-inflammatories as needed.
Immobilisation: A brace or splint may be recommended to protect the ankle during healing.
Physical Therapy: Begins with range-of-motion exercises, progressing to strength training and balance exercises as pain decreases.
Rehabilitation: Gradual return to activity over 2-6 weeks, depending on the severity and response to treatment.

Grade III

Rest: Complete rest and avoidance of weight-bearing activities, often requiring crutches.
Compression: A more rigid support, such as a cast or a walking boot, to stabilise the ankle.
Elevation: Elevate the ankle as much as possible to reduce swelling.
NSAIDs: Stronger pain relief may be required, under medical supervision.
Immobilisation: The ankle is typically immobilised for a longer period, often 3-4 weeks.
Surgical Consideration: In some cases, particularly with complete ligament tears or when the ankle remains unstable, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged ligaments.
Physical Therapy: Post-immobilisation therapy focusing on restoring range of motion, strengthening the surrounding muscles, and improving balance.
Rehabilitation: Recovery may take several months, with a gradual return to activity under the guidance of a healthcare professional.