A ligament is an elastic structure. Ligaments over-stretch, then recoil to its usual position. An over-stretched ligament is a sprain. A severe sprain causes actual tearing of elastic fibers. Commonly, foot twisting, rolling beyond its range-of-motion (ROM) are causes of an ankle sprain.
The ligaments of the ankle bind ankle bones and joint to provide more stability. Abnormal movements-especially twisting, turning, and rolling of the foot. Uneven footing on flat surfaces regularly perpetuate abnormal stretching.
A mild sprain is a Grade 1. A moderate sprain is a Grade 2. A severe strain is a Grade 3.
- Grade 1 sprain: slight stretching and some fiber damage to the ligament
- Grade 2 sprain: partial torn ligament. The ankle joint may be abnormally loose, rickety ankle condition
- Grade 3 sprain: complete ligament tear and gross can instability occur
Identify broken bones in the ankle or foot. Broken bone symptoms are similar to a sprain, muscle tear because of the bruising and swelling.
The injured ligament is tender. The amount of swelling and bruising in an ankle sprain determines the severity.
A complete ligament tear aggravates ankle instability after the initial injury. If a surface is unstable for the foot then there is ankle joint strain. Stabilizing the swelling, inflammation, and pain helps start the rehabilitation faster and attempt physiotherapy exercises.
Initial treatment should be the conventional RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) technique.
Ice should immediately be applied. It is to stabilize swelling and inflammation. Do it 20 to 30 minutes, three or four times daily. Beside ice, a wrap or brace helps swelling and pain. Wrap support is a regularly practiced compression technique. Elevate the foot above your heart level for 48 hours.
A severe sprain is going to require further diagnostic exams to identify severity of ligament and tendon damage. Possibly imaging techniques to also check for a bone fracture, or muscle tear. Recovery time for a Grade 3 may be up to three months, after surgery. A Grade 2 is up to 2.5 months for muscle repair (self-healing). Both levels will require physiotherapy exercises to regain flexibility and stability. Only start ankle sprain rehab without pain.
