If you read many sports headlines, you know that ankle sprains are all over the place. NBA star Dwayne Wade suffered a mild sprain several weeks ago, and there were over 620 foot and ankle injuries in the 2004 Athens Olympics-many of which were sprains. The best, most coordinated athletes in the world suffer from ankle sprains, but they plague the rest of us as well.

A “sprain” is a stretching or a tearing of ligaments around a joint, and the ankle is the most commonly sprained joint in the body. The majority of sprains are “inversion-type” in which the ankle rolls inward, thus stretching the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. In more serious cases, however, even the muscle tendons can be stretched or torn.

Several factors can predispose an ankle to sprains. Weak muscles, poor rehab from a prior sprain, and a diminished sense of position are all common causes. Sprains range in their severity from 1^st degree which includes mild stretching and swelling to 3^rd degree which involves the complete rupture of a ligament and excruciating pain. Regardless of their degree, ankle sprains should be treated as soon as possible to promote a better outcome and minimize long-term pain and instability. A good pneumonic to remember is R.I.C.E. which stands for Rest the ankle, Ice it for 15-20 minutes several times per day, Compress it with wraps or bandages, and Elevate the ankle above the level of the heart as much as possible for 48 hours. Be careful not to apply ice directly to elderly individuals or those with blood-flow problems.

2^nd and 3^rd degree ankle sprains should receive professional treatment immediately. Your podiatrist can perform X-rays to confirm the diagnosis and rule out an avulsion injury which is a fracture of the ligament’s attachment site to bone. He or she can also screen for potential causes of long-term future pain such as fractures, impingements, or bony fragments within the joint.

There are also several steps you can take to prevent your ankle from re-spraining. Continue to stretch your calf muscles-particularly on the affected leg-and wear an ankle brace or strapping device. Balancing exercises are good if tolerable. A wedge can also be placed in your shoe to prevent your ankle from tipping over. Finally, for individuals with chronic ankle sprains, surgery is available to tighten the ligaments and shift the tendons in order to stabilize your foot.

for more information

www.inmotionfootandankle.com

www.brucewerberdpm.com