Sprained ankle Whatīanga raparapa takoki
Sprained ankles are common injuries. They usually happen after you have twisted or rolled your ankle.
Causes of a sprained ankle
If you twist or roll your ankle, you may injure your ligaments. Ligaments are the strong bands of tissue that hold the bones in your ankle and foot in position.
A sprained ankle happens when the ligaments are forced beyond their normal range of motion. Common causes of this include:
- a fall that causes your ankle to twist
- landing awkwardly on your foot after jumping or pivoting
- walking or exercising on an uneven surface
- another person stepping or landing on your foot during a sports activity.
Symptoms of a sprained ankle
A sprained ankle can cause:
- pain
- swelling
- tenderness
- bruising.
It might be difficult to move your ankle in all directions. If the sprain is severe, you might not be able to walk.
Diagnosing sprained ankles
Your healthcare provider or physiotherapist can:
- talk to you about your symptoms
- examine your ankle.
Depending on the severity of your ankle sprain, your ligaments may have been:
- stretched
- partially torn
- completely ruptured.
You may be referred for an x-ray or other scan if:
- you have difficulty walking or putting any weight on your ankle
- your ankle is deformed or giving way.
Self care for a sprained ankle
There are things you can do to help your ankle heal.
To help with pain and swelling after your injury, follow the advice on managing soft tissue injuries.
Soft tissue injuries and treatment
Simple pain relief, such as paracetamol, may help to make you more comfortable.
Pain relief medicine for adults
You may need to modify your physical activities at first. Gentle movements of your foot will help make sure your ankle joint does not get stiff. If this causes pain, reduce the amount of movement until you can move your foot without it hurting.
Once your symptoms start to improve, you can gradually increase activity.
After an ankle sprain, you are more at risk of injuring your ankle again. It is important to build up your strength and balance. A physiotherapist or podiatrist can help with your rehabilitation.
Treating a sprained ankle
If you are having trouble walking, you may be provided with crutches. Depending on the severity of the sprain, you may need to use a moon boot for a period of time.
Getting the right treatment straight away may help you recover quickly.
A physiotherapist can help. They can give you exercises to restore your movement, strength and balance. Your physiotherapist will also help you return to your normal activities.
They may tape your ankle or suggest a brace to help stabilise it, especially when you are returning to sport.
A podiatrist can also do this and may fit you with orthotics in your shoes. Orthotics help to stabilise your foot in the right position.