Ankle Sprains and Ruptures

Causes of Ankle Sprains

Stretching the ankle ligaments beyond their maximum ability causes ankle sprains. Certain factors can increase the likelihood that ankle sprains occur. Increased laxity and flimsiness of the ligaments will create a situation in some people where the supporting ligaments cannot stop the twisting motion, which leads to the ankle injury. Additionally, the incidence of ankle sprains can also increase
if there are loose bone fragments found in the ankle joint associated with arthritis. 

 Anatomy of the Ankle

Ankle sprains, if not treated early, can create chronic ankle instability; (weak ankle) which leads to difficulty in sports activities and frequent recurrent ankle sprains. The ankle ligaments support the joint and prevent excessive motion that may cause instability. There are two sets of ligaments in the ankle joint, the deltoid ligaments (found on the inside of the ankle joint on the same side as the big toe) and the lateral collateral ligaments (found on the outside of the ankle joint on the same side of the little toe). The weakest of the fore mentioned and most commonly injured ankle ligaments are the lateral collateral ligaments. It is commonly injured by "rolling the ankle" or turning the foot inward, which stretches the ligament and results in tearing or rupturing of the ligament.

   

      Symptoms of Ankle Sprains

Ankle ligament injures are classified by grades from grade I to grade III. Grade I ankle ligament injuries do not involve ligament rupture and only have minor swelling and tenderness. Grade III injuries include a complete rupture of the ligament, severe bruising, swelling, pain, and major loss of function and motion of the ankle joint. Patients with ankle instability complain of persistent pain, recurrent sprains, and repeated instances of the ankle giving way.

Diagnosing Ankle Sprains:

The exam will include pushing along both sides of the ankle where the ligaments attach, as well as distracting and moving the ankle to determine which ligaments have been injured. The podiatrist will perform X-rays of the foot and ankle in order to determine if the ankle sprain is accompanied by a fracture. This may occur when the ligament has pulled off a bone fragment from the ankle and/or foot. Non-surgical Treatment for Ankle Sprains

P.s : If you liked what you just read kindly leave a comment or E-mail me to let me know what you think  as it acts as great motivating words to me to go on blogging

With Respect...Mahmoud

E-mail : mr.mahmoud1111@gmail.com