5 Things to Know About Ankle Sprains

What Exactly Is an Ankle Sprain?

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched or torn. These ligaments help keep the bones of the ankle together and stable. The most common type of ankle sprain is a lateral sprain, which happens when the foot rolls inward, damaging the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.

Ankle sprains are classified into three grades based on severity:

• Grade I (Mild): Slight stretching and microscopic tearing of the ligament fibers
• Grade II (Moderate): Partial tearing of the ligament, resulting in moderate swelling and bruising
• Grade III (Severe): Complete tear of the ligament, often accompanied by significant swelling, pain, and joint instability.

How Do Ankle Sprains Happen?

Ankle sprains typically occur during activities that involve sudden changes in direction, jumping, or uneven terrain. Common causes include:

• Landing awkwardly after a jump
• Walking or running on uneven surfaces
• Rolling the ankle during sports like basketball, soccer, or trail running
• Wearing improper footwear
• Weakness or previous injuries in the ankle

Athletes are particularly susceptible due to the physical demands of their sports, but anyone can experience a sprain under the right (or wrong) circumstances.

What Are the Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain?

Recognising the symptoms of an ankle sprain is crucial for timely and effective treatment. Common signs include:

• Pain: Especially on the outside of the ankle, which may worsen with movement or weight-bearing
• Swelling: The ankle may become puffy shortly after the injury
• Bruising: Discoloration may appear within hours or days
• Restricted range of motion: Difficulty moving the ankle or walking
• Instability: A feeling that the ankle may give out, especially in more severe sprains.

If you experience a popping sound at the time of injury or cannot bear weight on the ankle, you should seek medical attention promptly to rule out a fracture or more serious injury.

How Are Ankle Sprains Treated?

The treatment approach depends on the severity of the sprain. For most minor to moderate sprains, conservative treatment is highly effective. Here are the standard steps:

R.I.C.E. Protocol

• Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the pain
• Ice: Apply ice packs for 15–20 minutes every few hours for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling
• Compression: Use an elastic bandage to provide support and limit swelling
• Elevation: Raise the ankle above heart level when possible to minimize inflammation

Medication

Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help manage pain and reduce swelling.

Physiotherapy

Rehabilitation is essential for restoring strength, flexibility, and proprioception (body awareness). A physiotherapist can guide you through a tailored exercise program that includes:

• Range of motion exercises
• Strengthening of the surrounding muscles
• Balance and coordination drills

Supportive Devices

In some cases, a brace or walking boot may be recommended to immobilize the ankle during the early stages of healing.

Surgery

Surgical treatment is rarely needed for ankle sprains but may be considered if the ligaments are severely torn or if the ankle remains unstable after conservative therapy.

Prevention and Long-Term Care

Once you’ve had one ankle sprain, your risk of reinjury increases significantly. Here are a few tips to prevent recurrence and ensure long-term ankle health:

• Strengthen your ankle: Regular exercises that target ankle and lower leg muscles can provide better support and stability
• Warm up before activity: Prepare your body with dynamic stretching and mobility exercises
• Wear proper footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and provide adequate support for the activity you’re doing
• Use ankle braces when needed: Especially if you're returning to sports or have a history of sprains
• Listen to your body: If your ankle feels unstable or sore, give it the rest it needs before resuming full activity.

Ignoring ankle sprains or returning to activity too soon can lead to chronic instability, long-term pain, and even arthritis in some cases. Recovery is not just about healing the injury, but also about strengthening and retraining the ankle to prevent future damage.

When to See a Specialist

If you have recurring ankle sprains, persistent pain, or difficulty walking, it’s important to see an orthopaedic specialist. At Axis Orthopaedic Centre, we provide comprehensive care for ankle injuries—from diagnosis and conservative treatment to surgical repair when necessary.

Our team will work with you to create a personalised treatment and rehabilitation plan that ensures a safe and confident return to your daily activities and sport.