What are Ankle Sprains?

Sprains to the ankle are one of the most common sporting injuries. A sprain is defined as a tearing of the ligaments that connect bone to bone 🦴 and help stabilise the joint.

The weakest and most commonly injured ligament in the ankle is the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL). This is a band of connective tissue and is located on the outside of the ankle.

Acute ankle sprains result from a force being applied to the ankle joint which causes excessive range of movement at the joint.🙈

Proven risk factors:
* Previous or existing ankle injury 
* Lack of strength and stability related to the ankle.
* Lack of, or extreme flexibility, in the ankle joint.
* Poor balance.
* Sudden change in direction (acceleration or deceleration).

The immediate treatment of any soft tissue injury consists of the RICER protocol – rest, ice, compression, elevation and referral. RICE protocol should be followed for two to three days. The aim is to reduce the bleeding and damage within the joint.

When resting elevate the ankle and apply an ice pack ❄️ for 10-15 minutes every hour (never apply ice directly to the skin). A compression bandage can be applied to limit bleeding and swelling in the joint when standing and walking. It is important to try to walk as normally as possible from the beginning.

You should then seek advice for a comprehensive rehabilitation program which minimises the chance of the injury recurring and includes flexibility, balance, stretching, strengthening and sport specific exercises.🤓