3 Most Common Ankle Injuries and How to Treat Them

Ankle injuries are among the most frequent injuries people experience, whether they are athletes or simply going about their daily lives. With the wrong movement, a twist, or overexertion, the ankle can quickly become damaged, causing significant pain and limiting mobility.

Understanding the most common types of ankle injuries and the best approaches for ankle injury treatment is essential for both immediate recovery and long-term ankle health.

Here are the three most common ankle injuries and how to treat them effectively.

Sprained Ankle

A sprained ankle is the most frequent type of ankle injury, often occurring when the foot twists inward, stretching or tearing the ligaments that support the ankle joint. This injury can range from mild to severe, depending on how many ligaments are affected and the extent of the damage.

Symptoms:

• Sudden pain, particularly around the outer side of the ankle
• Swelling and bruising
• Difficulty putting weight on the foot
• Limited range of motion

Ankle Injury Treatment:

For a sprained ankle, immediate care is crucial to prevent further damage. The most common method of treatment is the R.I.C.E. method:

• Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured ankle to prevent worsening the injury.
• Ice: Apply ice to the ankle for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling and inflammation.
• Compression: Wrap the ankle with an elastic bandage or use orthopaedic ankle support to stabilize the joint and prevent excessive movement.
• Elevation: Keep your ankle raised above heart level when resting to reduce swelling.

For more severe sprains, physical therapy may be necessary to regain strength and mobility in the ankle. If the pain persists or worsens, seeking professional medical evaluation is important to rule out fractures or ligament tears that may require more intensive treatment.

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is another common ankle injury, especially among runners and athletes who place repetitive stress on the lower leg. The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, can become inflamed due to overuse, causing pain and swelling along the back of the ankle.

Symptoms:

• Pain or stiffness in the Achilles tendon, especially after physical activity
• Swelling along the tendon
• Tenderness when touching the area around the Achilles
• Limited ability to flex the foot or walk comfortably

Ankle Injury Treatment:

Achilles tendonitis can be managed with rest and specific treatments aimed at reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Here are some recommended steps:

• Rest and reduce activity: Limit activities that strain the Achilles tendon, such as running or jumping, to prevent further damage.
• Ice therapy: Apply ice to the inflamed area to reduce swelling.
• Stretching and strengthening exercises: Gentle calf stretches and strengthening exercises, under the guidance of a physical therapist, can improve flexibility and strength in the tendon.
• Orthopaedic ankle support: Wearing orthopaedic ankle support can provide added stability, especially during recovery or physical activity, offering better protection to the tendon.

In cases of chronic Achilles tendonitis, more advanced treatments like corticosteroid injections or even surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tissue.

Ankle Fractures

An ankle fracture occurs when one or more of the bones in the ankle joint breaks. This injury can happen due to a severe twist or trauma, such as falling or a direct impact. Depending on the severity, ankle fractures can range from minor cracks to complex breaks requiring surgery.

Symptoms:

• Intense pain immediately after the injury
• Swelling and bruising
• Inability to bear weight on the ankle
• Visible deformity in severe fractures

Ankle Injury Treatment:

Treating an ankle fracture often involves immobilization and careful monitoring to ensure the bone heals correctly. Treatment options include:

• Immobilization: A cast or brace is used to keep the ankle in place while the bone heals. Orthopaedic ankle support may also be beneficial during the recovery phase.
• Surgery: In severe cases where the bone is displaced, surgery may be required to realign the bones and stabilize them with pins, plates, or screws.
• Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is essential to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility once the fracture has healed. Exercises will be designed to regain full function in the ankle and prevent future injuries.

Regardless of the type of ankle injury, following through with rehabilitation exercises and using orthopaedic ankle support as recommended by healthcare providers will help with long-term recovery and ankle pain relief. Always seek professional guidance if you suspect a serious injury, as early treatment is critical to preventing complications.

In conclusion, understanding the most common ankle injuries and how to treat them is key to achieving effective ankle pain relief and avoiding long-term complications. Whether you’re dealing with a sprained ankle, Achilles tendonitis, or a fracture, proper treatment and care can help ensure a speedy recovery and reduce the risk of future injuries.