ANKLE SPRAIN

An ankle sprain happens when ligaments in the ankle joint are torn after being stretched past their limit. This is  a common injury especially in sports such as volleyball, basketball and field sports. The lateral [outer] ligament is most commonly injured as it is weaker than the medial [inside] ligament. Wearing high heeled shoes puts the lateral ligament into a stretched position and a small twist or stumble can then easily tear it

SYMPTOMS; pain and swelling around the ankle joint. Bruising may also become visible after a day or two. It may be difficult to walk on the sore ankle so crutchs may be needed.

PHYSIOTHERAPY; at Swords Physiotherapy a chartered physiotherapist will examine the ankle joint and determine which ligaments are sprained and the degree of sprain .

First degree sprains [ minor ligament  tears] and second degree sprains [moderate ligament tears] can be treated with physiotherapy. Third degree sprains [full ligament tears] will require medical intervention.

In the early stages of an ankle sprain  [ first 48 hours] at Swords Physiotherapy we advise R.I.C.E. [rest, ice , compression and elevation] is done to minimise swelling and bruising.

Exercises will be prescribed to restore movement, increase strenght , improve balance and proprioception. It is essential to restore full function to the joint to minimise chance of recurrance and return to all sporting activities.