Comprehensive Guide to Ankle Sprain Treatment

Diagnosing an Ankle Sprain

The diagnosis of an ankle sprain begins with a thorough medical history taken by your doctor. They will inquire about the circumstances of the injury, such as when and how it happened, and any previous injuries you may have had. Following this, a physical examination of your foot, ankle, lower leg, and possibly your knee will be conducted to assess if there are any additional injuries.

Your doctor may ask you to perform certain movements with your foot and take a few steps, if possible. They will also carefully manipulate your foot and ankle to check the integrity of the ligaments. X-rays are typically required to evaluate the ankle further. They can reveal if there are any torn ligaments, fractures, or bones that have shifted from their normal positions. In children, X-rays are particularly important to identify any potential injury to the bone's growth plate, which could disrupt normal growth. Occasionally, X-rays of both ankles may be necessary for comparison.

Treating an Ankle Sprain

The majority of ankle sprains require only a period of protection to heal, typically around four to six weeks. The first 24-48 hours after the injury are considered a critical treatment period, during which activities should be limited.

Early Treatments

• Rest: You may need to use crutches if walking causes pain. Immobilizing or splinting the ankle with a brace or walking boot may also be necessary.
• Ice: For the first 48 hours post-injury, apply an ice pack and elevate the ankle for 20 minutes every 3-4 hours. Avoid icing the ankle for more than 20 minutes at a time to prevent tissue damage.
• Compression: Use an Ace bandage to wrap the ankle from the toes up to the top of the calf muscle. Ensure the wrap is snug but not cutting off circulation.
• Elevation: Keep your ankle higher than your heart as often as possible.

More severe injuries, including complete ligament tears and fractures, may require different treatments and rehabilitation methods. These can include balance exercises, range of motion exercises, and the use of ultrasound and electrical stimulation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Motrin) may be used to control pain and inflammation.

When is Surgery Needed?

In severe cases or injuries that do not respond to nonsurgical treatment, surgery may be necessary. This often involves repairing the damaged ligament or ligaments. The surgical procedure will be selected based on the type and severity of your injury and your activity level.

Failure to recognize and properly treat an ankle sprain can lead to chronic issues of pain and instability. Therefore, it's crucial to seek medical attention and follow the recommended treatment plan.