Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries, affecting individuals of all ages and activity levels. They occur when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn due to an abrupt twisting or rolling motion. However, not all ankle sprains are the same. In this blog post, we will delve into the different types of ankle sprains, their causes, symptoms, and physical therapy treatments used for a safe and effective recovery.
Inversion Ankle Sprain:
The most prevalent type of ankle sprain is the inversion ankle sprain. It occurs when the foot rolls inward, causing damage to the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. This sprain typically involves the lateral ligaments, including the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and sometimes the posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL). Inversion ankle sprains are commonly associated with sports activities, walking or running on uneven surfaces, or wearing inappropriate footwear.
Symptoms: Pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising on the outside of the ankle, difficulty walking, and instability.
Eversion Ankle Sprain:
Unlike inversion sprains, eversion ankle sprains occur when the foot rolls outward, straining the ligaments on the inside of the ankle. This type of sprain is less common and typically involves the deltoid ligament on the medial side of the ankle. Eversion ankle sprains often result from trauma, such as tripping or landing awkwardly on the foot.
Symptoms: Pain, swelling, tenderness on the inside of the ankle, difficulty bearing weight, and potential instability.
High Ankle Sprain:
High ankle sprains, also known as syndesmotic sprains, involve damage to the ligaments above the ankle joint. Unlike inversion or eversion sprains, these occur when the foot is forcefully rotated outward, causing excessive stress on the syndesmotic ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula bones. High ankle sprains are frequently seen in athletes participating in sports with sudden direction changes or contact, such as football or soccer.
Symptoms: Pain and tenderness above the ankle joint, swelling, difficulty walking, and potential instability.
Physical Therapy Treatment:
Regardless of the type of ankle sprain, early and appropriate physical therapy intervention is crucial for optimal recovery. Here are some common treatments used by physical therapists:
- Ice, compression, elevation and activity modification are often used to alleviate swelling and reduce pain in the acute phase of the injury.
- Range of Motion (ROM) exercises to restore flexibility and joint mobility.
- Strengthening exercises targeting the muscles around the ankle joint for enhanced stability.
- Proprioception and balance training to improve the body’s awareness of joint position and reduce the risk of future sprains.
- Manual therapy techniques to promote healing and alleviate pain, such as joint mobilizations or soft tissue massage.
- Functional training to restore normal walking, running, and sport-specific activities.
- Bracing or taping techniques to provide external support and stability during the recovery phase.
- Education on injury prevention, proper footwear, and appropriate warm-up and cool-down exercises.
Ankle sprains can be painful and disruptive, but with the right treatment and guidance from a physical therapist, a full recovery is achievable. Understanding the different types of ankle sprains and their respective treatments can help individuals take appropriate measures to prevent future injuries.
If you have experienced an ankle sprain, consult a physical therapist for a tailored rehabilitation program to regain strength, stability, and return to your regular activities safely. At Respire physical therapy, we are happy to provide you with an individualized program and 1 on 1 attention to get you back to your favorite sport or activity! Call Respire Physical Therapy today at 703-671-1871 or click here to request an initial evaluation with a physical therapist today. Get back to the life you love without being limited by pain!
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