Ankle Sprains

What is Ankle Sprains?

An ankle sprain is a common musculoskeletal injury that refers to a tear (partial or complete) of one or more of the ligaments within the ankle. The most common type of ankle sprain (approx. 85%) occurs to the lateral (outside) ankle ligaments with combined plantarflexion (pointed toes) and inversion (rolled inward) motion. The ligaments most commonly affected include, anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), followed by the calcaneofibular ligament and the posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL) which are all located on the lateral side of the ankle. The less common type of sprain occurs with eversion (outwards) motion in which case the most commonly affected ligament is the deltoid ligament on the medial (inner) side of the ankle.

Ankle sprains are classified by 3 gradings:

1. A mild sprain- involves slight stretching and minor damage to the ligaments and presents with minimal swelling and tenderness around the ankle. (Grade I)
2. A moderate sprain- involves partial tearing to the ligaments and presents with moderate swelling, tenderness and instability. (Grade II)
3. A severe sprain – involves complete tear of the ligaments and presents with significant tenderness, swelling and instability. (Grade III)

When you have an ankle sprain you may experience strong pain, especially when you put weight on the affected foot. There may be tenderness when you touch the ankle. The ankle may swell and bruise. If you have torn the ligaments badly, then you may experience a popping sensation or sound at the time of injury.

Here at Precision Health we offer services such as Chiropractic care and Podiatry which can aid in your recovery from ankle sprains. Call (02) 9639 7337 or visit our website to book an appointment now!

Boren, D., Jacobs , P. and Kauffmann, M. (no date) Ankle sprain, Ankle Sprain. Available at: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Ankle_Sprain(Accessed: 11 September 2023).

M.C.S. (2022) Sprained ankle, Sprained Ankle. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sprained-ankle/symptoms-causes/syc-20353225#:~:text=Pain%2C%20especially%20when%20you%20bear,Bruising(Accessed: 11 September 2023).

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