sprained ankle

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 When a joint is taken beyond it normal range of motion with excessive force, ligaments can become sprained. Symptoms of an ankle ligament injury are acute pain at time of the injury, swelling, tenderness, bruising and pain on standing. In minor sprains, it is often possible to ‘run through’ this initial pain and continue the game. In other cases, pain is severe and standing on or moving the foot becomes unbearable. Any evidence of excessive movement at the ankle joint suggests instability, particularly when the foot or heel is pulled forward while stabilising the tibia. A doctor should be seen to rule out a fracture or ligament rupture.

Immediate rest, ice, compression (RICE) and elevation for 48 hours. In case of particular ligament rupture, with considerable swelling, strapping may be recommended for anything up to three weeks. However, in most cases of ankle sprain, mobility exercises and gentle weight-bearing should be commenced early on.

If after trying the above your sprained ankle isn't improving, you are still in pain, it is restricting your movement or generally affecting your quality of life, please feel free to get in touch for a no obligation consultation at our sports injury clinic.

Patients GP should always be consulted to rule out any underlying medical condition.