Ankle sprains are common injuries that occur when ligaments are stretched or torn.  The ankle sprain is the most common athletic injury.  Nearly 85% of ankle sprains occur laterally, or on the outside of ankle joints.  Sprains on the inside ligaments are less common.  Many sprains occur when participating in sports, or by twisting the ankle when walking on an uneven surface.  Some individuals, due to their bone structure or foot type, are more prone to ankle sprains.

 

The ankle joint is made up of three bones.  The bones are called the tibia, fibula, and talus.  These bones form a socket in which the ankle joint moves.  The tibia, fibula, and talus are connected to each other by ligaments.  Think of ligaments as thick rubber bands that hold bones together so that joints are stable and function properly.  When an ankle is sprained, a ligament is stretched, partially torn or completely torn.  Muscle and tendon structures surround the ligaments.  These structures provide motion of the ankle joint for walking and running.  Blood vessels, nerves and skin overlie the ligaments and tendons.  The ankle joint moves the foot upward and downward.  Just below the ankle joint is a ball and socket type joint that allows inward and outward motion.

 

Ankle sprain symptoms vary depending on severity.  Often, the ankle is tender, swollen and discolored.  The ankle can be quite painful to touch.  Walking is usually hampered and may become difficult depending on the severity of the sprain.  A feeling of instability may occur, especially in severe ankle sprains when ligaments are torn.  Ankle sprains are classified by "types" and range from mild to moderate to severe.  Classifying ankle sprains helps the podiatric surgeon diagnose the specific structures involved in the injury.  This also helps determine appropriate treatment plans for each type of ankle sprain.  Type I ankle sprain, the least severe, occurs when ligament fibers have been stretched or slightly torn.  Type II sprain occurs when some of these fibers or ligaments are completely torn.  Type III, the most severe, occurs when the entire ligament is torn and there is significant instability of the ankle joint.  Fractures of an ankle bone or other foot bone may be present.  Fractures require immediate diagnosis and attention, by your podiatrist, for appropriate treatment.

 

The diagnosis of an ankle sprain is made by an experienced podiatric physician and helps aid in quickly returning you to your sport or activity.  Several other less common injuries can be seen with ankle sprains so it is a good idea to have all ankle sprains examined to provide for proper treatment and to avoid long term problems from your injury.