Ankle Sprain
Ankle sprains are the most common sports injury.
Sprains are generally associated with a traumatic event involving the ankle rolling in or out too much. There are three grades of sprains from mild (tenderness and limping) to severe (bruising, swelling, inability to bear weight). Depending on severity, an x-ray may be indicated to rule out a fracture.
Self Check: Can you stand and put pressure on your injured ankle? If so, it’s probably a milder strain, if not, get checked out soon to avoid complications from a more severe injury.
What are the Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain?
Ankle sprains are typically caused by a trauma. The person will know exactly when and how they hurt their ankle. Initially they will feel extreme pain, have instant swelling and will have mild to excessive bruising. Bearing weight, walking, standing and ankle side to side movements will be painful for several days to weeks depending on the severity of the sprain.
What Causes an Ankle Sprain?
Over 90% of all ankle sprains occur with the ankle rolling outwards where the outside ankle bone gets closer to the floor. Not only do the ankle bones and ligaments get injured, but the bones and ligaments in the foot are also irritated and add to the pain experienced with an ankle sprain.
How do you treat Ankle Sprains?
The most pain-relieving thing that can be done to a sprained ankle is to realign the tarsal (ankle) bones. This is the source of the very sharp pain. It usually takes a series of chiropractic ankle adjustments during the same session to restore the proper movements in the tarsal bones. This normally happens within the first visit.
The ligaments and injured tendons of the foot respond well to A.R.T., compression and ice. Ligaments will heal and can become non-painful within 3-8 weeks. However, it will take 6 months to a year for the integrity of the ankle ligaments to return to near normal levels.
Did you know?
The most common sports injury is the sprained ankle.
