What It Is

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn due to a sudden twist, roll, or impact. This injury is common in sports or activities that involve sudden movements or changes in direction, but it can also happen during everyday activities like walking on uneven surfaces. Ankle sprains range from mild ligament stretches to complete tears, leading to varying levels of pain, swelling, and instability.

Signs & Symptoms

• Sudden pain in the ankle at the time of injury
• Swelling and bruising around the ankle
• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot
• Tenderness when touching or pressing on the injured area
• Reduced range of motion in the ankle joint
• Instability or a feeling of the ankle “giving way”

Diagnosis

Dr. Romanelli will perform a physical examination to assess the severity of the ankle sprain, checking for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. The doctor may also conduct stress tests on the ankle to evaluate ligament stability. X-rays may be ordered to rule out fractures, and in more severe cases, an MRI or ultrasound may be used to assess the extent of ligament damage.

Treatment

The treatment for an ankle sprain depends on the severity of the injury. Most ankle sprains heal with non-surgical treatments, though severe sprains or those that do not heal properly may require surgical intervention.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Non-surgical treatments are effective for most ankle sprains and aim to reduce pain and swelling while promoting healing. These include:

• Rest and Ice: Resting the injured ankle and applying ice packs can help reduce pain and swelling.
• Compression and Elevation: Wrapping the ankle with an elastic bandage and keeping it elevated can minimize swelling.
• Immobilization: In more severe sprains, a walking boot or brace may be used to immobilize the ankle and allow it to heal.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Once the initial pain and swelling subside, physical therapy exercises can help restore strength, flexibility, and stability to the ankle, preventing future injuries.

Surgical Procedure

Surgery is rarely required for ankle sprains, but it may be necessary if the ligament is completely torn or if the ankle remains unstable after non-surgical treatment. Surgical options include:

• Ligament Repair: The surgeon will stitch the torn ligaments back together to restore stability to the ankle.
• Ligament Reconstruction: In cases of severe damage, the torn ligaments may be reconstructed using tissue grafts from other parts of the body.

Physical Therapy

Rehabilitation through physical therapy is essential for a complete recovery from an ankle sprain. Physical therapy focuses on improving the range of motion, strengthening the ankle muscles, and restoring balance and coordination. Dr. Romanelli works closely with physical therapists to create a personalized rehabilitation plan that ensures a full recovery and reduces the risk of future ankle injuries.