Ankle Sprain
  1. Ankle Injuries
  2. Ankle Sprain
Sprained Ankle

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The ankle is most likely to be sprained with the toes on the ground and heel up. This position is known as plantar flexion. Plantar flexion puts the ankle’s outer (lateral) ligaments under tension, making them vulnerable.
A sudden force such as landing on an uneven surface will cause the foot to turn inward (inversion). This action can cause the outer ligaments to stretch or tear and result in a sprained ankle.

Sprained Ankles are classified into 3 grades, as follows:

Grade I sprained ankle injuries involve a stretch of the ligament with microscopic but not macroscopic tearing. 

Generally, little ankle swelling is present, with little or no functional loss, no joint instability but ankle pain.


Grade II sprained ankle injuries involve stretched ligaments with partial tearing, moderate-to-severe ankle swelling, bruising, moderate functional loss, mild-to-moderate joint instability and ankle pain.

Grade III sprained ankle injuries involve the complete rupture of the ligament with immediate and severe ankle swelling, bruising, and an inability to bear weight, moderate-to-severe instability of the joint and severe ankle pain.
Symptoms Include:
  • Difficult ambulation.
  • Bruising at injury site.
  • Pain and ankle swelling.
  • Warm to touch.
Treatment:
Non-surgical treatment
 
Ankle sprains can be treated with PRICE.
  • P: Protection from further injury with an ankle brace.
  • R: Rest means keeping off the sprained ankle as much as possible. Crutches enable the patient to move about when necessary without placing weight on the injury. A splint may be applied to the ankle for support and severe sprains occasionally require a hard cast.
  • I: Icing, cold therapy to stimulate blood flow and relieve the ankle pain associated with inflammation. Cold therapy should be applied several times over the course of the day.
  • C: Compression means supporting the ankle and foot with a firmly (not tightly) wrapped elastic bandage, compression stocking, or gel wrap. If ankle swelling causes the bandage to become tight, it should be loosened immediately.
  • E: Elevating the foot above heart level minimizes ankle bruising and ankle swelling. This should be done as often as possible during the first 48 hours.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen, Motrin, Naprosyn and Celebrex may be used to decrease ankle pain. Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting these medications.



Recommended Products for Ankle Sprain
Air-Gel Stirrup Ankle Brace

Air-Gel Stirrup Ankle Brace
Product Rating:

All the features of our popular “Cirrus” stirrup support with the addition of restorative gel padding. The air-gel padding provides support and controls bruising and swelling while allowing unhindere  Read more..

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Ankle Sprain Management Kit

Ankle Sprain Management Kit
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Our ankle sprain management kit is ideal for home use. The kit provides effective treatment for patients with ankle instability or chronic swelling. Video details treatment of the injury. The kit con  Read more..

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"Cirrus" Ankle Brace with Inflatable Air Bladder

"Cirrus" Ankle Brace with Inflatable Air Bladder
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The comfort and therapeutic value of air cradles the injured ankle within impact resistant contoured shells in our “Cirrus” stirrup brace. Pre-inflated air bladders help control swelling. The stirrup  Read more..

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Heavyweight Elastic Anklet

Heavyweight Elastic Anklet
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Our most popular and economical ankle support. This breathable heavyweight elastic support creates the support needed in controlling the injured ankle. Open toe and heel pull up design assures comfor  Read more..

Starting From: $18.45

Pullover Double Wrap Ankle Support

Pullover Double Wrap Ankle Support
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Durable, breathable elastic contours to support the ankle. An integrated elastic strap with Velcro® closure provides optimal support to the injured ankle without adding bulk. Open toe and heel pull o  Read more..

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"Robust" Stirrup Ankle Brace

"Robust" Stirrup Ankle Brace
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This is our most popular model. The semi-rigid, impact resistant shells, with cotton covered memory foam padding comfortably and securely protect your injured ankle. The stirrup design allows normal   Read more..

Starting From: $11.65

Ankle Sprain