Ankle Sprain
 Diagnosing a Sprained Ankle
A sprained ankle is a very common injury. Ankle sprains occur when the foot rolls beyond its normal motions. This causes the ligaments that connect the bones around your ankle to stretch beyond their normal position.
Sprained ankles commonly occur from falling, walking or running on uneven surfaces, sports participation, or wearing inappropriate footwear.
Also referred to as a "twisted ankle," some other common ways of spraining an ankle include:
- Tripping over an object
- Quick, pivoting motions when playing basketball
- Planting the foot in an unfamiliar position when running or stepping up or down (includes getting out of bed, hopping out of a chair, ect.)
- Having an opposing player step on your foot while trying to make moves
Severity of the Injury
Ankle sprains are graded into three degrees of severity based on the amount of injury to the ligament. The more severe the injury, the longer time it will take to heal.
FIrst Degree Ankle Sprain: Ligaments are slightly stretched. Symptoms tend to be pain and minor swelling of the ankle.
Second Degree Ankle Sprain: Ligaments are partially torn. More significant swelling and bruising occurs. This injury can take six to ten weeks to heal completely.
Third Degree Ankle Sprain: Ligaments are completely torn which causes instability of the joint. A third degree ankle sprain can take up to 12 to 16 weeks for the ligaments to fully heal.
Physical Therapy Exercises for a Sprained Ankle
Orthopedic Care Specialists provides support and assistance to patients suffering from muscle and joint injuries to get them back to the healthy and agile life activities they enjoy.
Orthopedic Care Specialists will help you get back on your feet with rehabilitation exercises, stretches and resistance exercises to improve strength and mobility, as well as stability in your active lifestyle.
Read about Ankle Sprain Rehabilitation »
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