1. What Is an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain, also known as ankle inversion injury, occurs when the ligaments surrounding the ankle are torn or stretched. When examined, doctors may diagnose this condition as a sprain. This type of injury is common among athletes in sports such as soccer, basketball, badminton, or tennis, often caused by inadequate warm-up or sudden missteps, forcing them to stop playing or withdraw from the game. However, ankle sprains can also occur during daily activities due to falls or slips.
2. What Are the Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain?
In the early stage, ankle inversion injury presents with:
Bruising and swelling: The most visible signs, noticeable to the naked eye.
Pain: Pain occurs when touching the ankle, becoming more pronounced when pressure is applied to the injured area.
Limited movement: Pain and swelling restrict mobility.
If not properly managed at the beginning, the injury may cause persistent pain, resulting in chronic ankle instability that is difficult to treat.
3. Types of Ankle Sprains
There are two main types of ankle sprains:
- Inversion sprain (foot turns inward): This causes tearing of the lateral ligaments, usually starting with the anterior talofibular ligament. Grade 2 and 3 tears can lead to chronic instability and progressive damage. Inversion injuries may also cause fractures of the talar dome and associated ligament damage.
- Eversion sprain (foot turns outward): When excessive force is applied to the inner ankle, the medial malleolus may fracture instead of the ligament tearing, as the deltoid ligament is very strong. However, the ligament can still rupture during severe eversion. The impact may also affect the outer joints; compression combined with ankle flexion can cause distal fibular fractures or tearing of the syndesmotic ligament (high ankle sprain). Moreover, an eversion sprain can transmit force up the fibula, causing a fracture near the knee (Maisonneuve fracture).
Repeated ligament tears can result in chronic ankle instability and further complications. Therefore, patients should be cautious even after recovery
4. How to Treat an Ankle Sprain
If an ankle sprain occurs, what should be done to prevent long-term effects on mobility? Patients should follow these steps:
- Stop all activities immediately and apply an ice pack for 10 – 20 minutes to reduce swelling and prevent ligament over-stretching. This is the most effective immediate measure.
- Immobilize the ankle by wrapping it gently with a soft towel.
- Elevate the foot and avoid walking for the first two days.
- Continue applying ice for about 20 minutes each session, three times daily.
- Avoid heavy activity and minimize movement.
- When sleeping, elevate the foot about 30 cm.
This approach is suitable for initial first aid and mild injuries. For severe sprains, patients should consult a doctor for appropriate medical treatment. In addition to medical therapy, a proper diet can support recovery. Avoid foods that may delay healing, such as morning glory, poultry, and sticky rice. Do not apply hot oils, herbal wine, or massage the area during immobilization, as this may increase swelling. Also avoid forceful manipulation or applying herbal poultices, which may cause internal muscle tears or skin infection. After complete recovery, patients should use an elastic bandage or ankle brace to prevent recurrence.
The goal of ankle sprain treatment is to reduce swelling and pain, allow ligaments to heal properly, and restore ankle function. The above information provides useful guidance to help you understand ankle sprains and their management.
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