Sprained Ankle – Symptoms and Causes
What Is an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain happens when you twist or roll your ankle in an unusual way. This movement can stretch or tear the ligaments that connect your ankle bones together.
Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that keep your joints stable and prevent too much movement.
Most ankle sprains affect the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle. There are three main ligaments in this area that commonly get injured.
When you move your ankle beyond its normal range of motion, these ligaments can become damaged.
The severity of a sprained ankle can vary. Some sprains involve minor stretching of the ligaments, while others may include partial or complete tears. Your treatment will depend on how serious the injury is.
Common causes of ankle sprains include:
- Walking or running on uneven surfaces
- Landing awkwardly after jumping
- Stepping into a hole
- Sports activities
Signs you might have a sprained ankle:
- Pain, especially when putting weight on the affected foot
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Limited range of motion
- Instability in the ankle
Mild sprains can often be treated at home with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers. More severe sprains may require medical attention to ensure proper healing.
Signs and Symptoms
A sprained ankle can show several signs depending on how bad the injury is. You might feel pain, especially when standing or walking on the injured foot.
The ankle area may be tender when touched. Many people notice swelling around the ankle joint. Bruising often appears as the injury develops.
Movement in the affected ankle might be limited. Some people feel that their ankle seems unstable or gives way when they try to use it. At the moment of injury, you might hear or feel a popping sound or sensation.
When You Should Call a Doctor
Contact your doctor if your ankle hurts, swells, and you think you might have sprained it. While home care often helps with minor sprains, talking to a healthcare provider can determine if you need a professional evaluation.
Seek medical attention right away if you have severe pain or significant swelling – these could indicate serious ligament damage or even a bone fracture in your ankle or lower leg.
Causes
Ankle sprains happen when the foot moves beyond its normal range, forcing ligaments to stretch or tear. Several situations can lead to this injury:
- Falls with ankle twisting
- Landing badly after jumping
- Walking on uneven ground
- Someone stepping on your foot during sports
These scenarios put unusual pressure on the ankle joint. When your ankle turns too far inward or outward, the ligaments that hold the bones together get stretched beyond their limits.
This stretching can range from mild to severe, causing different levels of damage to the ligaments.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase your chance of spraining an ankle:
Sports Activities
- Basketball, tennis, football, soccer, and trail running pose higher risks
- Sports requiring jumping or quick direction changes put extra stress on ankles
Environmental Factors
- Walking or running on uneven ground
- Poor field conditions with holes or bumps
Previous Injuries
- Having sprained your ankle before makes you more likely to injure it again
- Past ankle injuries can weaken supporting structures
Physical Condition
- Weak ankle muscles
- Limited flexibility in the ankle joint
Footwear Issues
- Ill-fitting shoes
- Shoes not designed for your specific activity
- High-heeled shoes that reduce stability
Possible Problems
Not taking care of a sprained ankle can lead to several issues. If you don’t treat it right, return to activities too quickly, or sprain your ankle many times, you might face:
- Long-term ankle pain that doesn’t go away
- Ongoing ankle instability where your ankle feels wobbly or gives out
- Joint arthritis developing in the ankle area
These complications can affect your mobility and quality of life if the initial injury isn’t properly managed.
Prevention
To avoid ankle sprains, take these precautionary steps:
- Warm up properly before any physical activity.
- Be mindful when walking on uneven surfaces.
- Use supportive gear like ankle braces for previously injured ankles.
- Choose appropriate footwear that fits well for your specific activity.
- Limit wearing high heels when possible.
Good prevention also includes not participating in activities you’re not conditioned for.
Building muscle strength and flexibility helps protect your ankles. Meanwhile, balance exercises are particularly effective for improving stability and preventing injuries.
Wearing proper shoes and being careful on uneven ground can make a big difference in keeping your ankles safe during daily activities and sports.
