A sprained ankle is a common musculoskeletal injury across virtually all age groups. The ankle joint is particularly vulnerable to damage because of its small size and the various weight-bearing and twisting forces exerted on it when the body is in motion.
An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more ligaments that connect the bones of your foot and leg at the ankle. It occurs when the band of tissue becomes stretched or torn.
A sprain may be mild or severe, depending on the scope and extent of the injury. A stretched ligament would cause a mild ankle sprain, a partially torn ligament would cause a moderate sprain, and a fully torn ligament is severely sprained and may require surgery to repair it properly.
What Causes a Sprained Ankle?
Not only are athletes susceptible to ankle sprains, but we become more susceptible to them as we get older. Our balance and strength decline as we age, so it takes less force to sprain an ankle.
Some of the most common causes of a sprained ankle include the following:
Falling
A fall may result in the twisting of the ankle and the ligaments that support it. The sudden impact and jerking motion of the ankle ligaments as you hit the floor or the ground can cause pulling or tearing of the tissues.
Ankle Overuse
Overuse may occur when playing sports or when performing a profession or hobby that requires constant ankle use – such as frequent use of ladders or stairs. These situations can cause small tears to develop in the ligaments of the ankle, creating a sprain.
Re-injury of a Previous Ankle Injury
A prior ankle sprain that did not fully recover or heal correctly can be vulnerable to another sprain or ankle injury. That is why it is important to give your ankle a break and allow it to heal before putting too much pressure on it again.
Ankle sprains generally heal on their own. However, a major sprain may lead to permanent ankle instability if not treated by a doctor. In such cases, it may require surgery and rehabilitation to get the ankle back to its original shape. Do not hesitate to consult a physician to assess your condition, because even a severe sprained ankle may be able to be successfully treated without surgery.
Ankle Sprain Treatment in North Dakota
When an ankle is injured, it can significantly affect our mobility and daily activities. It is best to have a medical evaluation in order to ensure proper healing and to prevent further complications.
Our orthopedic team at The Bone & Joint Center have the expertise to treat various types of musculoskeletal conditions, including ankle injuries. We can diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatment for your fast recovery.
We have been providing general and specialized orthopedic care since 1974, and we have several locations throughout the state for your convenience. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today by calling our friendly staff at (800) 424-2663 or request an appointment now via our online form. We look forward to helping you get back up and running!
