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What are ankle sprains? | How Are Ankle Sprains Treated? | Can Sprains Be Prevented?
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Ankles
What are ankle sprains?
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has information showing that ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries in sports. Because the inner ankle is less stable, the foot tends to turn inward after a tackle or collision on the field. Sports that involve a lot of running, jumping, physical contact and kicking pose the greatest risk for ankle injuries.
The bones in the leg and foot come together at the ankle joint. Ligaments are the bands of tissue that connect these bones. Muscles run across the ankle from the lower leg and into the foot. Together, ligaments and muscles help stablize the ankle joint during movement. Twisting and turning the ankle can result in the ligaments stretching or tearing. When this happen it is known as a sprain. Depending on the damage to the ligaments, the injury may be mild, moderate, or severe.
Symptoms will vary based on the severity of the injury. When the ligament is stretched, this may result in minimal pain and swelling. However, if the ligament is torn, pain and swelling will be considerably greater. Movement will be more painful and limited with a ligament tear. Other symptoms that may occur include ankle bruising.
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 How Are Ankle Sprains Treated?
Common treatment options for ankle pain include:
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Rest
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Bandage or tape the foot and ankle
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Insoles or medically prescribed orthotics
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Walking aids such as crutches may be suggested in some cases
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Ice and elevation will help with swelling which may occur with increased activity or near the end of the day.
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With some simple cases of ankle pain, certain exercises can help relieve some pain episodes. Remember, never do any exercise that causes increased pain. Click here to view foot and ankle exercises that can help strengthen the muscles and joints and make them more resistant to strain and injury.
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In more serious cases of injury, surgery may be required.
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Can Sprains Be Prevented?
One of the best ways to evade a foot injury is by wearing proper foot gear designed specifically for whatever activity you participate in with regularity. Runners should buy running shoes, basketball players (even weekend warriors) should buy basketball shoes, and the employee who constantly walks around for work should wear proper walking shoes. There is a shoe for virtually any activity.
Helpful tips to help you determine the best shoe for your needs:
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Buy shoes at the end of the day. The more you are on your feet, the larger they become and by the end of the day, your feet are larger than when you wake up.
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For athletic wear, it is important to have the sales person watch you walk and run in several shoes to see which provides the best support. A proper fit for an athletic shoe should leave enough room that there is a half-inch gap between the longest toe and the edge of the shoe.
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If you are in doubt, go up half a size. Shoes should NEVER feel too tight when you try them on. A quality shoe should not stretch out with wear.
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