What is a Sprained Ankle?

The damage of soft tissue and ligaments surrounding the ankle characterizes a sprained ankle. The position of the bones around the ankle makes it very susceptible to inversion injury this is when the ankle becomes twisted inwards. Eversion injury is also possible which is when the ankle becomes twisted outwards. Due to excessive twisting, lateral ligaments outside the ankle are overstretched or damaged. Sprained ankles are common amongst rugby players.

There are three ligaments that are usually damaged in a ankle sprain. The Anterior Talo Fibular ligament or ATF is the most common ligament involved in a sprained ankle since it attaches both the fibular bone and talus bone. The Calcaneo Fibular ligament which attaches the Calcaneus (heel) and Fibula (lower leg) becomes involved and damaged if the force or trauma to the ankle is greater. The Posterior Talo Fibular or PTF ligament is involved if the force or trauma is very severe.
Sprained ankles are categorized according to the extent and severity of the damage.

• First degree ankle sprains involve only a few damaged ligament fibres. Mild or moderate pain is experienced by the rugby player upon turning or touching the affected foot.

• Second degree ankle sprains involve more damage to the ligament as well as pain and swelling in the area which hinders normal walking.

• Third degree ankle sprains involve swelling, dislocation of the joint as well as rupture of the ligament completely. The ankle may appear deformed. Bone injury is not uncommon during very severe trauma. Avulsion fracture (tendon or ligament pulls off a piece of the bone) may be present at times.

Treatment

During the initial stages it is recommended that ice packs are applied for twenty minutes every two hours in order to reduce pain and swelling. Reusable plastic cast walkers and ankle supports provide support and compression. In the case of second and third degree sprained ankles, it is recommended that individuals use crutches to avoid putting too much pressure on the affected joints.

Reusable hot and cold pack

Throughout the treatment regimen, individuals will be asked to slowly add weight to the affected ankle by walking which increases strength of the ankle ligaments. Recurrent sprained ankles can indicate chronic and internal weakness in which surgery may be required. Ultrasound is one of the common diagnostic procedures before surgery. With the use of a small camera inserted into the ankle, bone flakes and scar tissues can be removed to permanently remove pain and stabilize the joint.

Prevention Tips

Sports insoles are ideal to prevent ankle sprains while playing rugby. Pro-prioception exercises are very effective since these help individuals catch their balance when doing strenuous physical activities. The joint becomes more stabilized through increased awareness and response by the person. Wobble boards and ankle braces are common tools used to improve overall strength, reflex and stability of the ankle joint. Taping and bracing the ankle are also very effective methods which reinforce the joint during sports.

5 Star Rating

Dr Foot Sport Insoles are engineered to combat over pronation and provide greater stability maximum support. Ideal for patients seeking arch support for prevention and treatment of ankle sprains.

View Dr Foot Sports Insoles

Rugby Rescue Recommends Ankle Supports

View Ankle Supports

Ankle strapping is intended to strengthen the internal and external ligaments which hold the tibio-fubular mortise (ankle joint) in place. These supports stimulate a strapping technique. The flexible straps are fitted beneath the heel, in the direction of the joint and push from the bottom to the top which locks the ankle tendons.

Lateral movement (twisting the ankle towards the outside) is prohibited and other movements remain intact. A fine perforated neoprene allows transpiration. These supports are ideal for footballers that suffer from twisting the ankle joint.

Darco Pro Walker

If you have a severe ankle sprain (it is not possible to put any weight on your ankle) or a fracture of the ankle, we would recommend the Darco Pro Walker.

View Removable cast protection and support for foot fractures and sprains