Ankle Sprains
By: Corinne Gehegan, DPM
Tens of thousands of individuals sustain ankle sprains on any given day.
Ankle sprains are a common injury and pain may subside rather quickly.
For this reason people tend to not seek professional medical care, delay
medical care, or not follow through with the recommended rehabilitation
course. Ankle sprains that are not adequately addressed often lead to
long term chronic pain, weakness, instability, and swelling. It is
better to invest a short period of time in proper management than t
attempt to make up for it later on.
Ankle sprains can be classified into
three types. Grade I involves stretching of the involved ligament with
minimal swelling. Individuals are able to walk with tolerable pain. Grade
II involves a partial tear of the ligament with a greater degree of
swelling and pain. Grade III is a complete tear of the ligament fibers
with swelling, pain, and significant instability. Ankle sprains may
occur at the outside or inside of the ankle as well as between the two
leg bones (high ankle sprain).
Ankle sprains are diagnosed after a thorough history and physical exam.
X-rays may be taken to rule out a secondary injury such as an avulsion
fracture. Several measurements may be taken regarding the relationship
of the able bones to one another. The X-Ray may also be utilized to
determine if any of those values lie outside of the norm. This, in turn,
may dictate treatment protocol. An MRI may be ordered to rule out damage
to the cartilage that comprises the ankle joint.
Healing occurs in three stages. During the first stage rest, ice,
elevation, and compression dressings are recommended. This should be
followed for at least one week. Braces, air casts, walking boots, and
crutches are all possible options to protect the ankle. During the
second stage protection is still advised along with range of motion,
strengthening, and exercises to improve proprioception (balance). By the
end of the 4th week patients should be able to begin to gradually return
to all previous activities. This may take several months and occurs
during the third and final stage of healing and remodeling. Physical
therapy managed by a licensed therapist may be prescribed. The mechanism
that causes an ankle sprain results in injury to the ligaments and
decreased strength of the adjacent peroneal tendons. It is very
important that these tendons be addressed during physical therapy.
Overall, most ankle sprains are successfully managed with non surgical
treatment that is thoroughly carried out. If chronic instability
persists and/or the cartilage was damaged, surgical intervention may be
warranted.
Article written by Dr. Corinne Gehegan
To schedule an appointment call (201) 840-7373.
Click here to go back to home page.
|
