The excitement of warm weather and summer vacation inspires many people to run right out the door into a variety of fun: swimming, softball, hiking and other vigorous activities. But after being sedentary during the winter or not being used to extended periods of exercise, it is easy for injuries to occur.
One of the most common injuries is an ankle sprain. These can occur during almost any activity. All it takes is a simple misstep or wrong turn of the ankle and instantly the individual will feel pain, which can range from mild to severe. Soon the area may begin to swell and throb, the joint may become difficult to move, and bruising may develop. Some people may be able to walk fairly easily while others may not be able to walk at all.
A sprain is an injury to a ligament, the tough fibrous tissue connecting bones at a joint. Ligaments also prevent the joint from excessive motion. Because the ankle has multiple bones, there are many ligaments present.
A sprained ankle is the most common type of musculoskeletal injury. An estimated 628,000 ankle sprains occur each year in the U.S., according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Adults and children, athletes and non-athletes can all experience a sprain. In comparison, a strain is injury to a muscle or tendon.
Mild sprains can be treated at home, however, to ensure that it is not something more serious – possibly a fracture – a visit to a doctor is in order, whether in the office, an urgent care center or emergency room. Symptoms signaling a more serious sprain include severe pain, inability to move the ankle or bear weight, and loss of feeling in the toes or foot, among other signs.
To make the diagnosis, a thorough physical exam is conducted. The physician will move the foot and ankle, and may check the nerves and arteries of the foot as well as the Achilles tendon. The location and level of pain can indicate the extent of damage. If the physician suspects a fracture, x-rays can be ordered. If a very severe sprain is suspected, a specialist may consider ordering an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or a CT scan to develop a more complete overview.
If mild, a sprain can be treated at home following the acronym RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. Anti-inflammatory medications can reduce the pain and swelling. In more serious cases, a brace or splint may be used. If a ligament or muscle is torn, surgery may be necessary.
Depending on the severity, level of activity and response to treatment, recovery time varies. A follow-up visit to a physician is advised if there is no improvement.
Unfortunately, once a person has experienced an ankle sprain, it is easy to reinjure the joint. Certain precautions such as properly fitting athletic footwear, warming up before exercising and paying attention to the body’s warning signs can help prevent a subsequent injury.