Ankle Sprain

Ankle Sprains are common injuries that occur when ligaments are stretched or torn. Lateral sprains (outside of the ankle joint) account for almost 85% of ankle sprains. Sprains on the inside ligaments are less common. Some individuals, due to their bone structure or foot type, are more prone to ankle sprains.

The ankle joint is made up of three bones, the tibia, fibula, and talus, forming a socket in which the ankle joint moves. Ligaments hold or connect the bones so that the joint is stable. The ankle is tender, swollen, discolored, and can be quite painful to touch. Walking may be difficult along with a feeling of instability. 

Diagnosis for an ankle sprain:

Determining the severity of the sprain and ruling out a fracture is the process of diagnosis and attention for appropriate treatment. To do this the surgeon examines the ankle and takes X-rays. Sometimes computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) give detailed views of the bone and soft tissue structures around the ankle joint.  Once the diagnosis is made, the podiatric foot and ankle surgeon recommends appropriate therapy which could include rest, ice, compression, elevation, or non-weight-bearing activities to promotes healing, reduces swelling, and decreases pain.

Most ankle sprains heal in three to eight weeks, while some repeat ankle sprains may cause chronic instability. In this case, the surgeon may recommend a surgical procedure to tighten or create new ligaments around the ankle joint to re-establish stability.