Ankle Sprain

Guildwood Physiotherapy

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Ankle Sprains are one of the most common injuries that we treat and they are the nemesis of many runners and sports participants. Immediately painful and incapacitating, the injury can often develop into a chronic problem. If treated early and properly, the ankle should heal well, and allow a safe and early return to activity.

There are 5 predisposing factorswobble board
1) Previous Injury
2) Weak Muscles
3) Inappropriate shoes
4) Uneven surface
5) Poor proprioception of foot

The injury is usually the result of the ankle turning in and over. Ankle sprains may be graded into three degrees of severity. The severity of the injury will dictate how long it will take before a return to full activity.
 

  • The first degree injury is the most common and most minor if not neglected. it is actually a sprain of the ligaments connecting the bones of the ankle. They are stretched but not torn, with very little swelling and no instability. The person is usually back to sports within a couple of days or weeks.

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  • The second degree injury is more serious. The ankle ligaments are partly torn. There is some blood in the tissues and there will be bruising of the ankle after a couple of days. This condition requires at least 3-6 weeks before return to full activity.

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  • The third degree is the most severe. It is a more serious tear of the ligaments, (may include a fracture) and sometimes requires surgery.

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  • Treatment

    • The treatment is divided into stages, with the objective being an early return to normal function.
     
  • Stage 1 (up to 72 hours) Initially the pain and swelling must be reduced by R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) 1) Ice the ankle (ice pack) during the day for 10 minutes every 2 hours. 2) Compression of the ankle will limit the swelling. A tensor bandage is usually sufficient but your Physiotherapist may apply a more effective support. 3) Rest and Elevate the ankle as much as possible. 4) Your doctor may prescribe an anti-inflamatory medication to reduce the swelling and inflammation.

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  • Stage 2 (first week) You can walk on the ankle as soon as it feels comfortable. Crutches can be used as a partial support when you begin to walk. Further support for your ankle will be needed in the form of tape or a brace. After an injury your ankle will become stiff. It is important to maintain the range of motion of your ankle. The sooner you begin Physiotherapy the sooner you will recover. Physiotherapy modalities, such as ultrasound, laser, interferential current, or acupuncture, are used to speed healing. proper walking patterns are taught, to prevent the limping and the overuse of the uninjured leg.

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  • Stage 3 (second week or longer) Your physiotherapist will introduce you to a program to improve strength, flexibility and balance. A home program will also be introduced to complement the clinic visits.

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  •  It is important that your ankle be strong before you return to activity. Too early a return will lead to re-injury and a chronic problem. When you can stand on the toes of your injured ankle for 20 seconds and hop on your toes 10 times you can begin to run. Initially you should only jog in a straight line. As you get stronger you can progress to large figure 8s. Progress to cutting and zig-zagging. You can return to your sport when you are able to zig-zag without pain or instability. Your ankle should be protected for a minimum of six months after injury. This can be achieved through taping or wrapping the ankle, or a brace , and the use of high cut sports shoes.

    • contact us
    E-mail: guildphysio@bellnet.ca
    or call (416)283 6893